Direct Entry 186 Visa

What Is the Direct Entry Stream?

Want to move to Australia permanently through an employer? If you have the right skills and experience, the Direct Entry stream of the Subclass 186 visa could be an option.

But it is not simply a case of finding an employer and getting a job offer. There are requirements for both you and the business sponsoring you to fulfil.

1

The Direct Entry stream is one pathway to the permanent Subclass 186 visa. It is generally aimed at skilled workers who have not built up the required period of employment in Australia on a temporary sponsored visa.

2

You need an Australian employer willing to nominate you for an eligible position. Your occupation must also meet the relevant requirements.

3

The direct entry 186 visa can be particularly useful if you are applying from overseas or are already in Australia but do not qualify for the Temporary Residence Transition stream.

Direct Entry vs Temporary Residence Transition

Which 186 stream makes sense for you can depend heavily on what you've already done in Australia.

If you've been working for the sponsor who has employed you on a temporary visa, the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream may be the natural next step once you've met the relevant requirements.

But TRT isn't the only route. The Direct Entry stream can be a great option for people who meet its requirements without first spending the required period working for their sponsor on a temporary visa.

In other words, don't assume your current visa determines your only option. Your occupation, Australian work experience, visa history and employer's circumstances can all influence which stream is right for you.

Skills Assessment and Eligibility Requirements

One of the biggest things to understand about the visa 186 Direct Entry stream is that eligibility is specific, not general.
Unless an exemption applies, applicants generally need at least three years of relevant work experience, a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation completed before lodgement, and an occupation that meets the applicable occupation-list requirements.
English language, health and character requirements may also apply.
There is usually an age requirement as well, although exemptions may be available in certain circumstances.
Your employer also has to meet the nomination requirements. The position needs to be genuine and meet the relevant rules.

Common Reasons Direct Entry Nominations Are Refused

Getting the documentation right matters here — if you’re unsure what counts as strong enough evidence, ask before you submit, not after.

Getting the job offer is only part of the process.
Applications can run into problems when the nominated position does not meet the requirements, the employer cannot demonstrate the genuine need for the role or the candidate's skills and experience do not line up with the occupation.
Missing documents and inaccurate information can cause problems too.
A strong application is about getting the details right from the beginning. It is much easier to deal with potential issues before an application is submitted.
Your Australian career could be closer than you think. If you have the right skills and experience, Direct Entry may offer a route to permanent residency without first spending years on a temporary sponsored visa. Talk to My Australian Career today and explore whether you could be eligible.

Can I apply for Direct Entry if I am currently outside Australia?

Yes. You can potentially apply from overseas if you meet the relevant requirements and have an eligible Australian employer willing to nominate you.

Can I use an old skills assessment for my 186 application?

It depends on your circumstances and the requirements that apply to your nominated occupation. A skills assessment may need to be valid or meet specific conditions when you apply, so don't assume an old assessment will be accepted.

What happens if my employer changes the job description?

A significant change to the role can matter. The position nominated for the direct entry 186 visa needs to meet the relevant requirements, so changes should be checked before they are made.