Employer Sponsorship — Golden Pathway

Program Overview

About Subclass 186 Visa

The Australian Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa is designed for skilled workers from overseas or temporary residents already living and working in Australia. This visa allows skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer to live and work permanently in Australia.

Unlike points-tested visas, the 186 visa does not require an Expression of Interest (EOI) or competitive scoring. As long as the applicant's occupation matches the employer's nominated position, has at least 3 years of relevant work experience (or holds a Subclass 482 visa for 2 years), and has a qualified employer willing to sponsor them, they can apply for the 186 visa and achieve permanent residency.

Important Note

Once granted, the applicant must work for the sponsoring employer for at least two years.

Three Pathways

Subclass 186 Visa Streams

Choose the pathway that best suits your circumstances

Direct Entry Stream

For applicants without a 482 visa or those who don't meet TRT requirements.

3 years work experience required

Skills Assessment needed

Occupation on MLTSSL

Under 45 years old

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT)

For 482 visa holders who have worked for their employer for 2 years.

Currently hold 482 visa

2 years with same employer

No Skills Assessment required

Simplified process

Labour Agreement Stream

For occupations not on the migration list but covered by a Labour Agreement.

Employer has Labour Agreement

Occupation matches agreement

Regional/industry shortage roles

Customised requirements

Quick Guide: Which Stream Suits You?

Situation	Recommended Stream
No 482 visa background, want direct PR	Direct Entry
Hold 482, worked 2 years	TRT Stream
Employer has Labour Agreement	Labour Agreement

Why Choose 186?

Key Advantages

Direct Permanent Residency

Unlike 189 and 190 visas, the 186 visa does not require a temporary visa transition. Once approved, applicants immediately become Australian permanent residents (PR).

Family Migration

Allows spouses and dependent children to be included as secondary applicants, granting the entire family permanent residency simultaneously with access to Medicare and free public education.

No EOI Required

Unlike 189 and 190 visas that require SkillSelect system scoring and invitation waiting, the 186 visa does not require EOI scoring. Applications are directly submitted through employer sponsorship.

Flexible Occupations

The visa's occupation requirements are more flexible, not limited to shortage industries. Occupations like chefs, marketing personnel, and office clerks can also apply with qualified employer sponsorship.

Step by Step

Application Process

1

Initial Assessment

Comprehensive evaluation of your personal circumstances and customised migration plan.

2

Contract Signing

Formalise service agreement and begin document preparation.

3

Employer Nomination

Prepare and submit employer nomination application to Department of Home Affairs.

4

Visa Application

Submit complete visa application with all supporting documents.

5

Assessment Period

Department review and possible phone verification (6-18 months processing time).

6

Visa Grant

Receive permanent residency approval and begin your new life in Australia.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Must I work for the employer after getting the visa?

Yes, the 186 visa is a permanent residency visa, but the nominated position should be a genuine full-time position for at least two years after visa approval. Immediate resignation after approval may affect assessments of application authenticity.

Can I include family members?

Yes. This visa allows the main applicant to include eligible spouses and children when submitting the application, applying for permanent residency together. Golden Pathway has offices in both Sydney and Melbourne to assist with family migration planning.

What are the English requirements?

Applying for the 186 visa requires 'Competent English' level. Typically IELTS four 6s, or equivalent scores in other English tests (such as TOEFL, PTE). Some streams (such as Labour Agreement) may allow lower requirements with specific agreement specifications.

Can I apply if over 45 years old?

Generally, 186 visa applicants must be under 45 years of age. However, in certain specific circumstances (such as high-income applicants, certain academic or medical positions, or nominations through labour agreements), age waivers may be possible. Eligibility depends on comprehensive assessment of personal background, position type, and employer circumstances.

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)