Employer Nomination Scheme Subclass 186

ENS Visa (186)

Secure permanent residency via employer nomination – eligibility streams and costs. Your direct pathway to Australian permanent residency through employer sponsorship.

ENS Visa Streams

Choose your pathway to permanent residency

Direct Entry Stream

For skilled workers who have never held a TSS visa or equivalent

Skills Assessment

Obtain positive skills assessment from relevant authority

3-6 months

Find Employer

Secure job offer from approved Australian employer

Variable

Nomination

Employer lodges nomination application

2-4 months

Visa Application

Lodge visa application with supporting documents

6-12 months

Direct Entry Stream Requirements

Under 45 years of age (exemptions apply)

Competent English (IELTS 6.0 equivalent)

Positive skills assessment

3+ years relevant work experience

Employer nomination

Meet health and character requirements

Associated Costs

Understanding the financial requirements

Nomination Fee (Employer)

AU $540

Paid by employer for nomination application

Skilling Australians Fund Levy

Up to AU $5,000

Annual levy paid by employer (varies by business size)

Visa Application Charge

AU $4,640

Main applicant visa fee

Additional Costs

Variable

Skills assessment, English tests, health checks, police clearances

Important Considerations

Age Ceiling

Generally under 45 years, but exemptions apply for certain occupations, high earners, and those with exceptional circumstances.

Australian Consumer Law

The ENS visa provides permanent residency with full work rights and access to Medicare, with a pathway to Australian citizenship after 4 years.

Employer Obligations

Employers must meet training benchmarks, pay market salary rates, and contribute to the Skilling Australians Fund levy.

Processing Priority

Transitional Residence stream typically processes faster than Direct Entry due to established employment relationship and reduced documentation.

Calculate Your Points

Assess your eligibility for skilled migration

Get Expert Advice

Navigate employer nomination requirements