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UAEEmployer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Scheme (186) visa gives permanent residence to a skilled worker nominated by an approved Australian employer. There are two main streams: Temporary Residence Transition, and Direct Entry. A Labour Agreement stream also exists.
Reviewed by Arun Padmani, MARN 2418630 · Government charges checked November 2026Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream
- You hold a 457 or 482 visa, or an eligible bridging visa.
- Usually 2 years of full-time work with your sponsor while on the 457 or 482 visa.
- Your employer's nomination must be approved by Home Affairs in the 6 months before you apply.
Direct Entry stream
- Your occupation is on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
- Under 45 years of age, unless an exemption applies.
- At least 3 years of relevant work experience, unless an exemption applies.
- A positive skills assessment before you lodge, unless an exemption applies.
- At least Competent English.
For both streams
- The employer must be an approved sponsor with a genuine position and must meet the salary rules.
- Health and character requirements.
- Exemptions and exact tests depend on your situation, so we check these against the current law before you lodge.
Government visa application charge
| Visa | Charge (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Employer Nomination Scheme (186), main applicant | $6,140 |
| Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT), from 1 July 2026 | $79,423 |
| Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT), from 1 July 2026 | $146,576 |
Sponsorship, nomination and levy charges are separate. The income thresholds apply to Skills in Demand (482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (186) applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026.
Common questions
Is the 186 a permanent visa?
Yes. When granted it gives permanent residence.
Which stream is right for me?
If you already work for your sponsor on a 482, the Temporary Residence Transition stream is usually the route. If not, Direct Entry may apply. We assess both.
Is there an age limit?
The Direct Entry stream has an age limit of under 45, with exemptions. Check with us for your stream.
Employer or employee?
We help employers become approved sponsors and nominate positions, and we help workers prepare their own applications.
Book a consultationArun Padmani, MARN 2418630All employer sponsored visas
Read the guide →Skills assessment
Most occupations need a positive assessment before you apply. We help you choose the authority and prepare.
Read the guide →