Permanent Residence (Employer Sponsored)
The Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers nominated by their Australian employer. It offers three streams and provides immediate permanent residency without points testing.
Duration
Permanent
Processing
6-18 months depending on stream and complexity
Application Fee
AUD $4,045 (primary applicant) + additional fees for dependents | Employer costs: SAF levy of $3,000 (turnover <$10M) or $5,000 (turnover >$10M)
Live and work in Australia permanently
Work for your nominating employer (initial commitment)
Include family members in your application
Enroll in Medicare
Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
Apply for Australian citizenship after 4 years (if eligible)
Travel to and from Australia for 5 years from grant date
No points test required
Nomination from an approved Australian employer
Be under 45 years of age (exemptions available for academics, researchers, medical practitioners in regional areas, and visa 444/461 holders)
Meet salary threshold of AUD $76,515 (TSMIT - from July 1, 2025)
At least 3 years of skilled work experience (Direct Entry stream)
At least 2 years with current employer (Temporary Residence Transition stream)
Skills assessment required for Direct Entry stream
Occupation on MLTSSL (Direct Entry) or ANZSCO dictionary (TRT stream)
English proficiency at competent level or higher
Meet health and character requirements
Immediate permanent residency without points testing
No need to score points or compete in invitation rounds
Strong employer support throughout the application process
Work rights anywhere in Australia after initial period
Direct pathway to Australian citizenship
Access to social security benefits and government services
Age exemptions available for certain occupations
Department of Home Affairs
Official visa information page
Important: Visa requirements and fees may change. Always verify current information on the official Department of Home Affairs website before applying.