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Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass186)- Direct Entry Stream

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Direct Entry visa is a permanent residency pathway for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer. Here’s an in-depth guide covering all key aspects:

 1. Overview and Purpose

  • The Subclass 186 visa is designed to fill skills shortages in Australia by enabling employers to sponsor overseas workers for permanent roles that cannot be filled locally. It is split into three streams: Direct Entry, Labour Agreement, and Temporary Residence Transition. The Direct Entry stream is ideal for applicants with three or more years of experience, and it allows applicants to live and work in Australia indefinitely, along with the flexibility to include eligible family members.

 2. Eligibility Criteria

   Key eligibility factors include:

  • Occupation and Skills Assessment: Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), and you’ll need a skills assessment relevant to your role.
  • Work Experience: At least three years of experience in your nominated occupation.
  • Age Limit: You must be under 45 when you apply, though some exemptions exist for certain applicants.
  • English Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate “competent English” – typically an IELTS score of 6 in each band or equivalent.

 3. Employer Nomination Requirements

  • To apply for this visa, you must be nominated by an Australian employer with an ongoing and genuine need for your role. The employer must prove they are unable to find an Australian citizen or permanent resident for the position. The nomination should also be for a full-time, ongoing role expected to last at least two years.

4. Fees and Charges

  • Base Application Fee: AUD 4,770 for the main applicant.
  • Additional Fees: Charges apply for each dependent family member. Extra fees for English language testing may apply if family members do not meet language requirements.

 5. Processing Times

  • Processing times can vary widely, ranging from 5 to 13 months. Factors impacting processing time include the accuracy and completeness of the application and how promptly any additional information is provided.

 6. Benefits of the Subclass 186 Visa

  • This visa grants permanent residency, allowing for indefinite stay and unrestricted work rights in Australia. It also provides access to Medicare (Australia’s healthcare system) and the opportunity to sponsor eligible relatives for residency. After fulfilling residency and character requirements, visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship.

 7. Health and Character Requirements

  • Applicants and family members must undergo health assessments and provide police certificates to demonstrate good character.

 8. Including Family Members

  • This visa allows eligible family members, such as spouses, dependent children, and even dependent parents, to be included in the application. These dependents will also enjoy full work and study rights and access to healthcare services in Australia.
  • The Subclass 186 Direct Entry visa is a strategic option for skilled individuals aiming to establish a permanent life in Australia, provided they meet all requirements.

Source:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/employer-nomination-scheme-186/direct-entry-stream.u/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/employer-nomination-scheme-186/direct-entry-stream.