Skilled Migration Australia 2025–2026: Your Guide to 482 and 186 Visa Options
The Australian Government has announced that the Permanent Migration Program planning level will remain at 185,000 places for the 2025–26 financial year. This steady intake signals continued demand for skilled migrants and an ongoing opportunity for workers around the world aiming to build a life in Australia.
185,000 places for the 2025–26 financial year
A large portion will continue to be allocated to skilled stream migrants, including employer-sponsored categories like the 482 and 186 visas. This highlights the importance of employer nominations in the upcoming year and makes it crucial for applicants to understand the best pathway for their situation.
But if you’re a skilled worker looking to migrate, one key question stands out: Should you apply for a temporary 482 Skills in Demand Visa, or aim directly for the 186 Direct Entry Permanent Residency Visa?
482 Visa vs 186 Visa: What’s the Difference?
Both the 482 Visa and the 186 Visa (Employer Nomination Scheme) require employer sponsorship, but they serve different purposes.
The 482 Visa: Fast-Track Entry with PR Potential
The 482 Visa (Skills in Demand—Core Skills Stream) is a temporary visa that lets skilled workers live and work in Australia for up to four years.
Key 482 Visa Requirements:
Occupation must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (456 eligible roles)
At least 1 year of work experience in the past 5 years
Skills assessment is not always required
Lower English language requirement: IELTS 5.0 or PTE 36
No age limit to apply
Who it’s for: Applicants who want to get to Australia sooner and may not yet meet the stricter requirements for permanent residency.
The 186 Visa: Direct Entry to Permanent Residency
The 186 Visa (Direct Entry stream) grants permanent residency from day one, offering a direct route to long-term living and working in Australia.
Key 186 Direct Entry Requirements:
Occupation on the same Core Skills Occupation List
Full skills assessment required
Minimum 3 years of full-time, post-qualification experience
Competent English: IELTS 6.0 or PTE 50
Must be under 45 years old (some exemptions apply)
Who it’s for: Experienced professionals who already meet the criteria and want to secure PR status immediately.
Which Visa Should You Choose?
If you are under 45, have a positive skills assessment, and 3+ years of experience? The 186 Visa (Direct Entry) is your best choice
If you’re not there yet, then the 482 Visa gives you the flexibility to start working in Australia and transition to permanent residency later.
From 482 Visa to Permanent Residency: The 186 Temporary Residence Transition Stream
Many skilled workers begin their journey with the 482 Visa and later transition to permanent residency through the 186 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream.
To qualify for the 186 TRT stream, you need:
2 years of full-time work on a 482 Visa
Employer nomination for the 186 Visa
Competent English: IELTS 6.0 or PTE 50
Be under 45 years old at the time of PR application
While this is a proven and increasingly common pathway, the process can be complex, and the right timing and preparation matter. If you're exploring the 482 Visa and want to understand how it leads to Permanent Residency, don't miss our upcoming online webinar. We’ll be diving deep into these topics:
✅ The key steps in moving from a 482 visa to the 186 TRT Permanent Residency stream
✅ How to meet the new 2-year work requirement across multiple employers
✅ Understanding the nomination process and what your employer must do
✅ How to navigate age, English, and occupation eligibility
✅ Real-life case studies of successful 482 → 186 transitions
✅ Pitfalls to avoid when lodging your 186 visa application
✅ Your rights and benefits after becoming a permanent resident
You’ll gain insider insights from our migration expert and webinar speaker, Think Visa Principal Solicitor Michelle Yu, and have the chance to ask questions during a live Q&A session. Register today to secure your spot.
With Australia’s migration cap steady at 185,000 places in 2025–2026, skilled workers have a clear window of opportunity. Whether you qualify for the 186 Direct Entry Visa or need to build your profile through the 482 Visa, the key is planning early and making informed decisions. The competition is global, but your pathway to Australian PR in 2025–2026 is within reach with the right strategy and support.
