Overview of the Subclass 186 Visa
The Subclass 186 visa is designed for skilled workers who have an employer willing to sponsor them for a permanent position in Australia. This visa is part of Australia’s Employer Nomination Scheme, which allows Australian employers to sponsor highly skilled workers from overseas to fill labor shortages. The Subclass 186 visa offers a pathway to permanent residency, enabling visa holders to live and work in Australia indefinitely.
Streams of the Subclass 186 Visa
The Subclass 186 visa is divided into three main streams:
- Direct Entry Stream:
- Eligibility: For skilled workers who are nominated by their employer for a position listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Requirements: Applicants typically need to have at least three years of relevant work experience, a positive skills assessment, and meet the English language requirements.
- Temporary Residence Transition Stream:
- Eligibility: For workers who have worked for their nominating employer in Australia on a Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa or a Temporary Work (Skilled) (Subclass 457) visa for at least three years.
- Requirements: No skills assessment is required, but applicants must meet English language requirements and have worked in the same position with the nominating employer.
- Labour Agreement Stream:
- Eligibility: For workers sponsored by an employer who has a labor agreement with the Australian government.
- Requirements: The requirements are specified in the labor agreement, which may include particular skills, qualifications, or work experience.
Eligibility Requirements
- Nomination: Applicants must be nominated by an approved Australian employer.
- Age: Generally, applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of application, although exemptions apply in certain cases.
- Skills and Experience: Applicants must have the necessary skills and qualifications for the nominated position. A positive skills assessment may be required for the Direct Entry stream.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate competent English language proficiency.
- Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements, including undergoing relevant medical examinations and providing police clearance certificates.
Benefits of the Subclass 186 Visa
- Permanent Residency: Visa holders can live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- Healthcare: Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
- Social Security: Eligibility for certain social security payments.
- Family Inclusion: Visa holders can include eligible family members in their application. Family members will enjoy the same benefits as the primary applicant.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After meeting residency requirements, visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship.
- Travel: Multiple entry rights, allowing visa holders to travel to and from Australia as they wish.
Application Process
- Employer Sponsorship: The employer must apply to become an approved sponsor if they are not already.
- Nomination: The employer must lodge a nomination application for the position.
- Visa Application: After the nomination is approved, the applicant can lodge their visa application, including all required documentation such as proof of skills, experience, and English proficiency.
- Medical and Police Checks: Complete mandatory health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Processing and Decision: The Department of Home Affairs assesses the application and may request additional information or documents. Once the assessment is complete, a decision is made.
Conclusion
The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa is a significant pathway for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency in Australia. By understanding the different streams, eligibility requirements, and the application process, both employers and applicants can navigate the system more effectively. The Subclass 186 visa not only offers a stable and prosperous future in Australia but also opens the door to a permanent home in one of the world’s most desirable countries.
Visit: https://www.y-axis.com.au/visa/work/australia/subclass-186/
