Securing permanent residency (PR) in Australia is a significant milestone for many skilled professionals working in the country. The 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa offers a clear pathway to PR for those who meet the required criteria. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed explanation of the 186 Visa, breaking down the eligibility requirements, the application process, and how PR Pathway assists candidates in achieving their residency goals.
What is the 186 Visa?
The 186 Visa, also known as the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa, is a permanent visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia. An employer nominates the candidate for the visa, meaning a business operating in Australia must sponsor them to fill a skilled position. This visa is particularly beneficial for individuals currently working in Australia on temporary visas, such as the 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, or those looking to transition from a dependent visa.
The government divides the 186 Visa into three distinct streams:
- Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
For individuals who have worked for their employer for at least three years on a 482 Visa or another eligible temporary visa. This stream allows those workers to transition from temporary residency to permanent residency. - Direct Entry (DE) Stream
Individuals working in Australia or overseas who don’t meet the TRT requirements can use this stream. Employers nominate applicants, who must also meet specific skill and experience criteria. Skilled workers who haven’t been employed by their nominating employer for three years or more commonly use this stream. - Labour Agreement Stream
This stream applies to workers sponsored under a labor agreement between an employer and the Australian government. It covers specific industries and situations where employers demonstrate the need for workers that the local labor market cannot supply.
Eligibility Criteria for the 186 Visa
To qualify for the 186 Visa, candidates must meet several important eligibility criteria (outlined here). While the specific requirements can vary depending on the stream under which you apply, here are the general criteria:
1. Nomination by an Australian Employer
The 186 Visa requires an eligible Australian employer to nominate the candidate for a skilled position. The employer must be operating legally in Australia, and the position must meet the needs of the business.
2. Age Limit
Applicants must generally be under the age of 45 at the time of application. Thus, there are some exemptions to this requirement for particular occupations and situations, such as certain academic or scientific roles.
3. Skills and Occupation
The role for which the applicant is being nominated must be listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The applicant must have the qualifications and skills required for the position and, in many cases, must provide evidence of skills assessment by a relevant authority.
4. English Language Proficiency
Candidates must demonstrate a competent level of English language proficiency. This can typically be proven through test results from approved English language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. The specific score requirements vary depending on the stream and other conditions.
5. Work Experience
Additionally, applicants must have at least three years of full-time relevant work experience in the nominated occupation. This ensures that the applicant has the skills and experience necessary to perform the job for which they are being sponsored.
6. Health and Character Requirements
Like all Australian visa applicants, candidates for the 186 Visa must meet health and character requirements. This involves completing medical examinations and providing police certificates from any country where the applicant has lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
The 186 Visa Application Process
The application process for the 186 Visa can be complex, as it involves multiple steps that need to be carefully managed. Below is a breakdown of the typical process:
Step 1: Employer Nomination
The first step in the 186 Visa process is for the employer to nominate the candidate. The employer must submit a nomination application to the Department of Home Affairs, demonstrating the need for the position and ensuring it meets the visa requirements. The employer must also provide evidence that they are paying the market salary rate for the position.
Step 2: Visa Application
Once the employer’s nomination has been approved, the candidate can submit their visa application. This involves providing documentation that supports their eligibility, including proof of skills, qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency, and health and character clearances.
Step 3: Skills Assessment (if required)
For certain occupations, the candidate may need to undergo a formal skills assessment conducted by an approved authority. Often, this is required for applicants applying through the Direct Entry stream.
Step 4: Application Review and Decision
After submitting the visa application, the Department of Home Affairs will review the information provided and make a decision. Processing times can vary, but it is common for the process to take several months. During this period, additional documentation or information may be requested by the authorities.
Step 5: Visa Grant
Once the visa application is approved, the candidate will be granted a permanent residency visa. This allows the individual to live and work in Australia permanently, with access to benefits like Medicare and the ability to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.
How PR Pathway Helps Candidates Meet the 186 Visa Criteria
Navigating the 186 Visa process can be daunting, especially for individuals unfamiliar with the legal and procedural requirements. This is where PR Pathway comes in, offering professional guidance and support every step of the way. Here’s how PR Pathway helps candidates meet the criteria and secure their permanent residency:
1. Employer Connections
PR Pathway has established a network of trusted employers who are willing to sponsor skilled workers for the 186 Visa. Our employers understand the visa process and commit to helping qualified individuals achieve PR.
2. Personalised Eligibility Assessment
One of the most challenging aspects of the 186 Visa process is determining eligibility. PR Pathway conducts a thorough assessment of each candidate’s qualifications, work experience, and current employment situation to ensure they meet the necessary requirements before proceeding with the application.
3. Guidance on Documentation and Application
4. Skills Assessment Support
PR Pathway coordinates the formal skills assessment process for candidates, ensuring they submit the correct documentation and complete the assessment with the relevant authority.
5. Streamlined Visa Process
PR Pathway, with years of experience in securing the 186 Visa, streamlines the process and ensures that experts handle the application. Therefore, allowing candidates to focus on their careers while professionals manage the visa process.
Conclusion
The 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa provides a valuable pathway to permanent residency in Australia for skilled professionals. Nonetheless, the eligibility criteria and application process can be complex, the support of an experienced team like PR Pathway can make the journey much smoother. From employer nominations to visa submissions, PR Pathway helps candidates meet the necessary requirements, providing them with a trusted partner on their road to PR. PR Pathway can help achieve PR if you earn at least $600 per day on an IT Contract. Reach Out Now!
How We Can Help:
My name is Veda, and I help run the Labour Hire Program at PR Pathway Australia. I guide people through the On-Hire Labour Visa application process, ensuring a smooth transition and a high success rate. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please feel free to email us at support@prpathway.com.au. I’m here to assist you every step of the way.
Migration Assistant
