Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Australia’s Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) provides skilled workers with a pathway to permanent residency through nomination by an Australian employer. This visa is designed for professionals with relevant skills and qualifications who are nominated to fill critical roles in the Australian workforce.
Live in Australia permanently
Work for your nominating employer in a skilled role
Access to Medicare and pathway to citizenship if eligible
Bring your family — eligible dependents can be included
Why choose this visa
This visa is ideal for highly skilled professionals with an eligible occupation who are sponsored by an approved Australian employer. It enables you to live and work permanently in Australia and may offer faster processing if your occupation is in demand or you are working in a regional location.
Available for both onshore and offshore applicants
Live and work permanently in Australia
Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship
Priority processing for regional roles
Timing & processing
There are three streams under this visa:
- Direct Entry stream - for applicants who are qualified and meet all skill and English requirements.
- Labour Agreement stream - for applicants sponsored under a formal labour agreement.
- Temporary Residence Transition stream - for current 482 or 457 visa holders who meet transition eligibility.
Visa processing times depend on your chosen stream, the accuracy and completeness of your application, health and character checks, and available migration places. For up to date visa processing times, visit the Home Affairs website.
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1. Skills and eligibility check
Ensure your occupation is on the relevant list and you meet English, health, and skills requirements.
2. Employer nomination
Your Australian employer lodges a nomination application with the Department of Home Affairs.
3. Visa application
After the nomination is lodged, submit your visa application with supporting evidence.
4. Processing and decision
The department will assess your application. Processing times vary based on the stream and application completeness.
Stop dreaming, start moving.
Make the smart move to Australia
Are you a skilled worker who wants to accelerate your career in a country of endless opportunities? Now is the time to turn your Aussie dream into reality. Explore our Employer Nomination Scheme visa.
Australia has helped me improve my quality of life both mentally and financially. It is a land of opportunity for those who are skilled, dedicated and disciplined.
Anjali Awal Prajapati’s passion for helping and caring for others led her to a career in nursing and a new life in Australia. With the support of her family, Anjali completed nursing training in India and then critical care training at a government hospital in Nepal. After graduating she worked in 2 hospitals in Nepal before coming to Australia to undertake her Master of Nursing at the University of New England.
On graduating, Anjali decided to practice in Australia, and she now calls the New South Wales Hunter Valley region home. Working as a nurse in a hospital and in aged care, she feels she has an opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.
Anjali likes to explore new places, skills, people and cultures. She has found the multicultural community in the Newcastle area helpful and respectful of individual rights and freedoms.
Anjali Awal Prajapati from Nepal
Common Questions
Are my skills in demand in Australia?
Many professions across industries like health, technology, construction, and education are in high demand due to Australia’s growing economy and national priorities. Checking the skilled occupation lists can help you understand where your skills fit.
Explore career pathways to find the best opportunities that match your skills.
What benefits can I expect working in Australia?
Australia offers competitive salaries, strong workplace protections, opportunities for career growth, and access to professional development and training.
Explore your career pathway to discover even more opportunities and take the next step in your professional journey.
Can my partner or family migrate with me?
Yes. Many skilled visas allow you to bring immediate family members. Australia offers schooling, healthcare, and work rights for eligible dependents.
Discover more about family lifestyle in Australia
Is Australia really one of the world’s most liveable countries?
Yes. Australia regularly ranks near the top in global liveability indexes due to its excellent healthcare system, high-quality education, political stability, low crime rates, and well-maintained infrastructure. Many parts of Australia are known for their cultural diversity, recreational opportunities, green spaces, and overall quality of life. Combined with a clean environment and a strong focus on work-life balance, Australia offers an attractive lifestyle for individuals and families alike.
Explore more reasons why Australia is a great place to live, work, and thrive.
