Direct Entry Stream
For applicants who are qualified or have sufficient experience in an eligible occupation.

Labour Agreement Stream
For applicants who are sponsored by an employer under a labour agreement.

Transition Stream
For 457 visa or 482 TSS Visa holders who have worked for their nominating employer for a minimum of two or three years.

You might be eligible to apply for the 186 Permanent Visa if you have an Australian employer who is willing to sponsor you and meet the following requirements:

You may be eligible to apply for a 494 visa:

Age

You must be under 45 at the time of application unless you are exempt.

Employer Nomination

Applicants must be nominated by an Australian employer before applying for this visa and must apply within 6 months of the nomination being approved if the applications aren’t lodged together.

Licensing, registration or membership

You must be licensed, registered or a member of a professional body if it is mandatory in the state or territory you intend to work in.

Occupation

Direct Entry
Your occupation must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.

Labour Agreement
Be working under a labour agreement

Experience

You must have at least 3 years of full-time work experience, within the last 5 years, before applying for this visa.

Skill Assessment

You must have a positive Skill Assessment, in your nominated occupation, from the relevant assessing authority unless you are exempt.

English

You must have at least Competent English to apply for this visa

Health & Character

You must meet the health and character requirements

Length of stay

This is a permanent visa, however, the 186 visa has a travel component that expires 5 years after the date of visa grant.

After this time, applicants can apply for one of the below:

• Australian Citizenship
• Resident Return Visa

Others

• Not have had a visa cancelled or a previous application refused.
• Have paid back your debt to the Australian government.
• Sign the Australian values statement