Why Apply for a 186 Visa?

The Subclass 186 visa, also known as the Employer Nomination Scheme visa, allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. Here are five compelling reasons to consider applying for this visa:

 

1. Permanent Residency: Enjoy the benefits of living, working, and studying in Australia on a permanent basis.
2. Family Inclusion: You can include your partner, dependent children, and other eligible family members in your application.
3. Work Opportunities: Gain access to a wide range of employment opportunities across various sectors in Australia.
4. Education and Healthcare Benefits: Avail of high-quality education and healthcare facilities for you and your family.
5. Pathway to Citizenship: The Subclass 186 visa offers a clear pathway to Australian citizenship, subject to meeting residency requirements.

 

Eligibility to Apply for a 186 Visa

To be eligible for the Subclass 186 visa, applicants must:

 

• Be nominated by an approved Australian employer.
• Be under 45 years of age at the time of application, unless exempt.
• Meet the skills, qualifications, and English language requirements of the position.
• Apply under one of the visa's three streams: the Direct Entry stream, the Labour Agreement stream, or the Temporary Residence Transition stream.
• Meet health and character requirements.

 

186 Visa Requirements

The specific requirements for a Subclass 186 visa depend on the stream under which you apply, but generally include:

 

• Nomination by an Australian Employer: Your employer must nominate you for a position in their organization.
• Skills Assessment: For the Direct Entry stream, you may need to have your skills assessed by the relevant Australian authority.
• English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate competent English language skills, typically through an approved English language test.
• Health and Character Checks: Undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates to meet health and character requirements.

 

Steps to Apply for a 186 Visa

1. Obtain Nomination: Ensure your employer has lodged a valid nomination with the Department of Home Affairs.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, including evidence of skilled employment, English language proficiency, skills assessment (if required), and identity documents.
3. Apply Online: Submit your visa application online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs' website, attaching all required documentation.
4. Pay the Visa Application Charge: Submit the appropriate fee for your visa application.
5. Health and Character Checks: Complete any requested health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
6. Await Decision: Your application will be reviewed, and you will be notified of the outcome.

 

Processing Time for 186 Visa

Processing times for the Subclass 186 visa can vary based on the stream applied for, the completeness of the application, and the need for additional information. As of the last update, processing times ranged from 5 to 8 months for most applications. It's important to check the most current processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website.

 

186 Visa Cost

The cost for the Subclass 186 visa starts from AUD $4,115 for the main applicant, with additional charges for each family member included in the application. Costs may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your application, including additional charges for health assessments, police checks, and English language tests.