Employer Nomination Scheme 186 (Direct Entry)
A permanent residency visa for skilled overseas workers nominated by an approved Australian employer to live and work in Australia permanently, usually for those without recent Australian work experience on a temporary skilled visa.
Overview
The Direct Entry stream of the ENS 186 visa allows skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer for an eligible occupation to live and work permanently in Australia. Applicants can be outside or inside Australia at the time of application. It is designed for individuals who have not worked in Australia on a subclass 457, 482, or other eligible temporary skilled visa, or who are directly sponsored due to their skills and qualifications.
Do You Have What It Takes?
- ✔ You are nominated by an approved Australian employer.
- ✔ You have an occupation on the relevant skilled list.
- ✔ You have at least 3 years of relevant work experience (commonly expected).
- ✔ You hold a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
- ✔ You meet Competent English requirements.
- ✔ You satisfy health and character standards.
- ✔ You are under the maximum age limit (usually 45, exemptions apply).
- ✔ The position is genuine and full-time.
- ✔ The market salary rate and TSMIT thresholds are met.
- ✔ The employer meets sponsorship compliance obligations.
Why Choose This Path?
- Gain permanent residency in Australia.
- Work and live anywhere in Australia.
- Include eligible family members.
- Enrol in Medicare.
- Access to pathways for Australian citizenship.
- Travel in and out of Australia for 5 years.
- No need to hold a 482/457 visa beforehand.
- Apply directly from outside Australia.
- Stability under a permanent visa status.
- Sponsor eligible family for PR in future.
Your Roadmap to Success
- Ensure your occupation is on the skilled list.
- Secure an employer nomination (via approved sponsor).
- Obtain a valid skills assessment.
- Prepare proof of work experience and English proficiency.
- Undergo health and character checks.
- Create/log in to ImmiAccount.
- Lodge your nomination (by employer) and visa application.
- Pay the visa application charge.
- Track progress and respond to additional information requests.
- Wait for approval and settle in Australia permanently.
Visa Duration
Initial Duration
Permanent
Visa Pathways
Australian Citizenship Pathway
Become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements (typically 4 years).
Processing times
Costs
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base Application Fee | AUD4,910.00 | Primary application fee |
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