Subclass 186 Visa Australia
Secure your future in Australia with employer-sponsored permanent residency.
Partner Visa
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186 Visa allows skilled employees to live and work in Australia permanently when nominated by an approved Australian employer.
It’s the ideal pathway for businesses wanting to retain valued staff long-term, and for skilled professionals seeking stability and growth.
At Affinity Migration, our registered migration agents help both employers and employees navigate the entire 186 visa process, from eligibility and nomination through to permanent residency approval.
Work Permanently in Australia Through Employer Sponsorship
Why Choose Affinity Migration
Employer sponsorship visas are complex and time-sensitive, one mistake can lead to refusal or costly delays. Our experienced team ensures every detail is handled correctly.
- Registered migration agents specialising in employer sponsorship and permanent visas.
- Expert advice across the 186 visa streams – Direct Entry (DE), Temporary Residence Transition (TRT), and Labour Agreement (DAMA).
- Transparent process with fixed-fee consultations and clear expectations.
- Full service for both businesses and sponsored employees.
- Proven success managing employer nominations and PR transitions across industries.
We handle the complexity so you can focus on what matters; your business, your team, and your future in Australia.
About the Visa Subclass 186
The 186 Visa Australia grants permanent residency to skilled workers who are nominated by an approved Australian employer and meet specific criteria.
There are three streams available depending on your situation:
1. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
For holders of a 482 or 457 visa who have worked full-time for their employer for at least two of the last three years.
The 186 TRT Visa provides a pathway to permanent residency with the same sponsoring employer.
2. Direct Entry (DE) Stream
For applicants outside Australia or those who haven’t held a 457 or 482 visa.
Requires a positive skills assessment and three years of relevant experience in a nominated occupation.
3. Labour Agreement (DAMA) Stream
For workers sponsored under a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA). The DAMA 186 Visa offers flexibility for regional employers needing skilled overseas staff under localised agreements.
Key Benefits of the 186 Permanent Residency Visa
- Permanent residency from day one for you and your family
- Work and study anywhere in Australia
- Access to Medicare and citizenship pathways
- Sponsor eligible relatives to join you in Australia
- Job security with long-term employer partnership
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Visa Subclass 186, you must:
- Be nominated by an approved Australian employer
- Have the required skills and experience for the nominated occupation
- Hold the necessary licensing or registration if applicable
- Meet English language, health, and character standards
- Be under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
Our team will confirm which stream suits you best and prepare a complete, compliant application.
Our Step-by-Step Process
- Employer Nomination – We liaise with the business to ensure eligibility and lodge the nomination.
- Skills & Experience Assessment – We gather evidence and verify compliance with visa criteria.
- Visa Lodgement – We prepare and lodge your 186 visa application.
- Monitoring & Updates – We keep both employer and employee informed at every step.
- Permanent Residency Grant – We assist with post-approval obligations and next-stage planning.
Common Industries for the 186 Visa
- Healthcare and Aged Care
- Engineering and Construction
- Information Technology
- Education and Professional Services
- Manufacturing and Hospitality
Affinity Migration supports employers and skilled professionals across diverse industries to achieve long-term success in Australia.
FAQs: Subclass 186 Visa Australia
Yes. The 186 PR Visa grants immediate permanent residency for you and eligible family members.
No. The 186 visa requires nomination from an approved employer.
The TRT stream is for workers already employed in Australia on a 482 or 457 visa, while Direct Entry is for new or offshore applicants.
It’s a stream under the Labour Agreement program for regional employers covered by Designated Area Migration Agreements, providing more flexibility for skills and experience requirements.
Yes. You can include your spouse and dependent children for permanent residency.
Start Your Path to Permanent Residency Today
The 186 Visa Australia is one of the most reliable pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers and their families.
At Affinity Migration, we’ll make the process clear and stress-free, from sponsorship to approval and beyond.
Partner with Affinity Migration Today
Whether you’re expanding your business, securing specialised talent, or sponsoring an existing employee, our experienced team is here to help.
With Affinity Migration, you’ll receive straightforward advice, a structured process, and results you can trust.