Key Features of the Subclass 186 Visa
The Subclass 186 visa is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to work in Australia under one of three streams:
- Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:
- For individuals who have worked with their employer on a temporary visa (such as Subclass 457 or Subclass 482) for at least three years.
- Applicants must be nominated by their employer for a permanent position.
- Direct Entry Stream:
- For individuals who have not worked in Australia or have worked for their employer for a shorter period.
- Applicants must be nominated by their employer and have their skills assessed by a relevant assessing authority.
- Labour Agreement Stream:
- For individuals nominated by an employer under a labour agreement with the Australian government.
- Applicants must meet the terms and conditions specified in the labour agreement.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Subclass 186 visa, applicants must meet several criteria, which vary slightly depending on the stream:
- Nomination by an Approved Employer: Applicants must be nominated by an Australian employer who is approved by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Skills and Qualifications: Applicants must possess the necessary skills and qualifications for the nominated position. This often includes a positive skills assessment from a relevant authority.
- Work Experience: For the TRT stream, applicants must have worked for their employer for at least three years. For the Direct Entry stream, relevant work experience is typically required.
- Age: Applicants must generally be under 45 years of age at the time of application. Some exemptions apply.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate a competent level of English, usually through an approved English language test.
- Health and Character Requirements: Applicants and their family members must meet health and character requirements, including medical examinations and police clearances.
Application Process
The application process for the Subclass 186 visa involves several steps:
- Employer Nomination: The employer must lodge a nomination application with the Department of Home Affairs, specifying the nominated position and the applicant’s details.
- Lodge Visa Application: After the nomination is approved, the applicant must lodge their visa application online, providing all required documentation.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Applicants need to submit supporting documents, such as proof of skills and qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency, and health and character clearances.
- Processing and Decision: The Department of Home Affairs will process the application, which can take several months. Applicants can track the progress of their application online.
- Visa Grant: If the application is successful, the visa will be granted, and the applicant can live and work in Australia permanently.
Benefits of the Subclass 186 Visa
- Permanent Residency: Visa holders gain permanent residency in Australia, allowing them to live and work indefinitely.
- Family Inclusion: Applicants can include their immediate family members (spouse and dependent children) in their visa application.
- Access to Benefits: Permanent residents have access to Medicare, Australia’s public health care system, and other social benefits.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After meeting residency requirements, visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship.
- Work and Study: Permanent residents can work and study anywhere in Australia without restrictions.
- Travel Rights: Visa holders can travel to and from Australia freely for five years from the date the visa is granted. After that, they will need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident.
Conclusion
The Subclass 186 visa provides a valuable pathway for skilled workers to achieve permanent residency in Australia. With its various streams catering to different circumstances, it offers flexibility and opportunities for individuals seeking long-term employment and residency in Australia. Understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is crucial for a successful application. By securing a Subclass 186 visa, skilled workers and their families can enjoy the numerous benefits of living and working in Australia, paving the way for a brighter future.
