186 — Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) is an Australian permanent visa for skilled workers sponsored by an approved employer. Two streams exist: Direct Entry (3+ years experience, skills assessment) and Temporary Residence Transition (for Subclass 482 holders with 2 years at their sponsor).

It grants permanent residence with no points test. Employers must pay at least AUD 76,515 (CSIT). Applicants must be under 45, meet IELTS 6.0+, and pass health and character checks. The application fee is AUD 4,910 and processing typically takes 12–19 months.

This visa is ideal for skilled professionals with an Australian employer ready to sponsor permanent residence, who want a direct PR pathway without a points test.