Employer-Sponsored Permanent Residency Visa (186)

Introduction

The 186 visa is a permanent residency visa under the Australian employer-sponsored category. It is designed for skilled workers sponsored by an employer, offering a direct or indirect pathway to permanent residency in Australia. This visa does not require investment, has no geographical restrictions, and offers fast processing times, making it a popular migration option.

Benefits of the 186 Visa

• Direct pathway to Australian permanent residency.
• No need for points testing, investment, or asset proof.
• No residency restrictions.
• Fast processing, with high-quality employer nominations expediting the process.

Categories of the 186 Visa

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

• Eligibility: For applicants holding a 457 or 482 visa and having worked for any sponsoring employer for at least 2 years.
  
• Requirement: Employer must provide a permanent job offer.

Direct Entry (DE) Stream

• Eligibility: For applicants with little to no work experience in Australia or who do not meet the TRT requirements.
  
• Advantage: Direct application for permanent residency.

Labour Agreement Stream

• Eligibility: For applicants sponsored through government-approved labour agreements or regional migration agreements.
  
  
• Features: Designed for specific industries or regions requiring employer-sponsored applicants.

Eligibility Criteria for the 186 Visa

• Age：Below 45 years (age exemptions available in special cases).
• English Proficiency: Minimum IELTS score of 4.6 or equivalent.
• Work Experience: At least 3 years of full-time relevant work experience.
• Occupation: For DE stream, the occupation must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
• Skills Assessment: Must pass the relevant skills assessment.
• Employer Nomination: Must be nominated by an eligible Australian employer.

Application Process for the 186 Visa

1. Determine the Nominated Occupation: Ensure the occupation is on the CSOL for DE stream applicants.
   
2. Secure Sponsorship: Find a qualified Australian employer.
3. Employer Lodges Sponsorship Application: Employer submits and clears the nomination process.
4. Submit Visa Application: Applicant submits their visa application.
5. Medical Checks and Interviews (if required): Complete the necessary health and background checks.
6. Visa Grant: Receive approval and become an Australian permanent resident.

Key Factors for Employer-Sponsored Applications

The employer’s qualifications are critical to the success of a 186 visa application. Key requirements include:

1. Labour Market Testing (LMT): Demonstrating that the position could not be filled locally.
2. Genuine Business Needs: Proof of the necessity for the role.
3. Standard Employment Contract: Offering a full-time position for at least 2 years.
4. Legitimate Business Operations: Employer must operate legally and meet certain operational criteria.

Successful Subclass 186 Visa Cases