Employer Nominated Scheme
Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) – Your Complete Guide to the Subclass 186 Visa
Looking to live and work in Australia permanently through employer sponsorship? The Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) is a direct pathway to Australian permanent residency for skilled workers who are sponsored by an approved Australian employer.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Employer Nominated Scheme, also known as the subclass 186 visa—including its streams, eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits.
What Is the Employer Nominated Scheme?
The Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia if they are nominated by an Australian employer. The ENS visa falls under subclass 186, which is managed by the Department of Home Affairs.
It’s an ideal solution for Australian employers facing skill shortages and for skilled international workers who wish to settle in Australia long term.
Streams of the Subclass 186 Visa
There are three streams under the Employer Nominated Scheme:
Direct Entry Stream
For workers not currently holding a subclass 482 visa, or those who have never worked in Australia
Requires a positive skills assessment
Must have at least 3 years of relevant work experience
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
For current holders of a subclass 482 or 457 visa
Must have worked with the same employer for 2 out of the last 3 years
No need for a new skills assessment
Labour Agreement Stream
For workers sponsored under a labour agreement between an employer and the Australian Government
Used when an occupation is not on the standard occupation list
Employer Nominated Scheme Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the ENS visa, both employers and applicants must meet specific criteria:
Employer Requirements:
Must be an approved business sponsor
Offer a genuine, full-time position in a skilled occupation listed on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List)
Pay the market salary rate
Fulfill labour market testing (where applicable)
Applicant Requirements:
Be under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
Have competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
Hold the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience
Obtain a positive skills assessment (for the Direct Entry Stream)
Meet health and character requirements
How to Apply for the ENS Visa (Subclass 186)
The process typically involves three stages:
Step 1: Nomination by Employer
The Australian employer submits a nomination application to the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 2: Visa Application
Once the nomination is approved, the applicant can lodge their visa application online.
Step 3: Wait for Visa Grant
The Department will assess the application, and if successful, the visa will be granted for permanent residency.
Note: Times are subject to change and may be affected by application volume, completeness, and occupation.
Cost of the ENS Visa (Subclass 186)
Main applicant: From AUD $4,640
Additional applicants (e.g., spouse, children): Additional fees apply
Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy: Paid by the employer (AUD $3,000–$5,000 depending on business size)
Benefits of the Employer Nominated Scheme
Permanent residency from day one
Live and work anywhere in Australia
Access to Medicare (public healthcare)
Include eligible family members
Pathway to Australian citizenship
No restriction on job change after the initial obligation period
Who Is the Employer Nominated Scheme Best For?
Skilled workers currently on a 482 TSS visa looking for PR
International workers with skills in demand in Australia
Employers who want to retain high-performing overseas staff long term
Final Thoughts
The Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) provides a trusted and structured pathway to Australian permanent residency for skilled professionals. Whether you are an employer or a potential migrant, the subclass 186 visa is a great option if you meet the requirements and are committed to a long-term career in Australia.
If you're ready to take the next step, consider seeking professional assistance to ensure your application is complete, compliant, and competitive.
