Australia · Skilled Worker Visa

Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) — Direct Entry stream

By António Mira, Founder · Member, Arab-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCIAP) & Portuguese-Saudi Business Council (PSBC)
✓ Verified against the official government source · Last verified 2026-06-24 · Our methodology
10/10 diff
Very Difficult

Permanent residence via employer nomination. Direct Entry stream for applicants without prior 482 work. Requires positiv…

Min income
€4,018/mo
Processing
Path to PR
Yes
Job offer
Required
Direct answer

Permanent residence via employer nomination. Direct Entry stream for applicants without prior 482 work. Requires positive skills assessment, ≥3 years relevant work experience, age <45 (with exemptions for high-income earners, senior academics, medical practitioners), competent English. Employer must pay nomination fee + SAF levy. Occupation must be on CSOL.

At a Glance

Visa Duration
Processing Time
Min Income
€4,018/mo
Path to PR
Yes
Difficulty
10/10 — Very Difficult

Eligibility Requirements

RequirementDetails
Age Range18+
Education Requiredbachelor
Job Offer RequiredYes
Sponsorship RequiredYes
Health Insurance RequiredNo

Financial Requirements

ItemAmount
Minimum Income€4,018/mo

Family & Rights

RightDetails
Family AllowedYes
Spouse Can WorkYes
Path to Permanent ResidencyYes
Time to Citizenship4 years

Related Pathways

Cost of Living

Sydney
Single (monthly)€3,140
Family (monthly)€5,650
Rent 1BR (center)€2,072
Groceries€785
Transport pass€188
Melbourne
Single (monthly)€2,503
Family (monthly)€4,800
Rent 1BR (center)€1,475
Groceries€626
Transport pass€150
Brisbane
Single (monthly)€2,448
Family (monthly)€4,550
Rent 1BR (center)€1,565
Groceries€612
Transport pass€147

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) — Direct Entry stream?

Permanent residence via employer nomination. Direct Entry stream for applicants without prior 482 work. Requires positive skills assessment, ≥3 years relevant work experience, age <45 (with exemptions for high-income earners, senior academics, medical practitioners), competent English. Employer must pay nomination fee + SAF levy. Occupation must be on CSOL.

What are the financial requirements for the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) — Direct Entry stream?

Applicants need minimum income of €4,018/mo. Additional costs may include relocation expenses, insurance, and document attestation.

Can I bring my family on the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) — Direct Entry stream?

Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents. Your spouse may also be eligible to work.

Can the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) — Direct Entry stream lead to permanent residency or citizenship?

Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward citizenship in approximately 4 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.

Are there alternative pathways to Australia?

Yes. Australia offers 24 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Australia country page.

What is the cost of living in Australia?

Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Sydney: €3,140/mo; Melbourne: €2,503/mo; Brisbane: €2,448/mo. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.

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Official source

Requirements on this page are based on this official/primary source:

Data last verified: 2026-06-24 · See our methodology

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