Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) - Direct Entry and Temporary Residence Transition
The main employer-sponsored permanent visa: an Australian business nominates you for PR, either after working for them (TRT) or directly (Direct Entry).
Official Australia pageWho this route is for
Skilled workers whose Australian employer wants to sponsor them for permanent residence - current 482/TSS holders transitioning after time with the employer, or candidates nominated directly with a strong skills assessment and experience.
Eligibility requirements
- Be nominated by an approved Australian employer for a position paying at least the Core Skills Income Threshold (AUD 76,515 from 1 July 2025) or the annual market salary rate, whichever is higher.
- Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream: have worked for the sponsoring employer (generally 2 years) in the nominated occupation while holding a 482/TSS visa; from 29 Nov 2025 only sponsored work counts toward this.
- Direct Entry stream: at least 3 years of relevant skilled work experience and a positive skills assessment for the occupation.
- Generally under 45 at application (some exemptions, e.g. certain high earners and long-term 457/482 holders).
- At least Competent English (IELTS 6 in each band, or equivalent).
- Meet health and character requirements.
Requirements reviewed June 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.
Recent changes & caveats
This is the primary PR destination for Skills in Demand 482 holders. From 29 November 2025, unsponsored work no longer counts toward the TRT 2-year experience requirement. Direct Entry remains the route for those without prior Australian sponsored employment.
Check your points first
Use the free Skilled Migration Points Calculator to see if you're likely to qualify before you start.
Other Australia routes
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) - Points-tested stream
PermanentThe flagship 'no sponsor needed' permanent visa: score enough points, get invited, then live and work anywhere in Australia.
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
PermanentPoints-tested permanent residence with a state/territory nomination that adds 5 points and can rescue a borderline score.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
ProvisionalA 5-year regional provisional visa worth a big +15 points, designed as a stepping stone to PR via subclass 191.
Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191)
PermanentThe permanent-residence finish line for 491 (and old 494) holders who have lived and earned in regional Australia for three years.