Australia's Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS), encompassing the Subclass 186 Visa, stands as a testament to the country's commitment to attracting skilled workers from overseas to address labour shortages and bolster its economy. This Visa offers a pathway for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer to obtain permanent residency. In this blog, we delve into the intricacies of this Visa, shedding light on its eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits for both employers and prospective migrants.
Understanding the 186 Visa
Eligibility Criteria
This subclass of Visa is divided into three streams: the Temporary Residence Transition stream, the Direct Entry stream, and the Agreement stream. Each stream has specific eligibility requirements tailored to different circumstances.
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream: This stream is for temporary residents who have worked for their nominating employer for at least three years in the same occupation while holding a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa, subclass 457 or 482.
Direct Entry (DE) Stream: The DE stream is for individuals who have never, or only briefly, worked in Australia, or temporary residents who are not eligible for the TRT stream. Applicants must undergo a formal skills assessment and meet the English language proficiency requirement.
Agreement Stream: This stream is for individuals sponsored through a labour agreement.
Employer Nomination
To apply for this Visa, applicants must be nominated by an approved Australian employer. The employer must demonstrate a genuine need for the nominated position and meet certain sponsorship obligations. Additionally, they must provide evidence of efforts to recruit Australian citizens or permanent residents before nominating a foreign worker.
Application Process
Once nominated by an employer, applicants can proceed with the visa application process. They must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect (if applying under the DE stream) and subsequently receive an invitation to apply. Applicants must provide supporting documents, undergo health and character assessments, and pay the requisite visa fees. Upon approval, successful applicants are granted permanent residency in Australia.
Benefits of the 186 Visa
Permanent Residency
One of the primary advantages of this subclass of visas is the attainment of permanent residency status in Australia. This provides visa holders with the freedom to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely, without any restrictions on duration or conditions.
Employment Opportunities
This Visa opens doors to a wide range of employment opportunities in Australia's thriving economy. Visa holders can explore career prospects in various industries and contribute their skills and expertise to the country's workforce.
Access to Public Services
As permanent residents, this visa holder is entitled to access Australia's public services, including healthcare through Medicare. They can also avail of social security benefits and enrol in education and training programs at domestic rates.
Young woman showing her cv in human resources office
Pathway to Citizenship
Permanent residents have the option to pursue Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements and passing the citizenship test. Australian citizenship offers additional privileges, including the right to vote and eligibility for an Australian passport.The Subclass 186 Visa under the Employer Nomination Scheme serves as a crucial pathway for skilled workers to establish permanent residency in Australia. By facilitating the recruitment of overseas talent, this visa category contributes to the country's economic growth and cultural diversity. For employers seeking to fill critical skill gaps and individuals aspiring to build a future in Australia, the 186 Visa offers a promising opportunity for success and prosperity. Contact My Study in Australia to have this visa.