How to Transition from 482 to 186 Visa: Pathways, Timelines, and Case Study

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186) provides a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers sponsored by Australian employers. Many 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders can transition to the 186 visa once they meet work experience and employer sponsorship requirements. This guide explains the available streams, eligibility criteria, and a real-world scenario to help you plan with confidence.

Overview of the 186 Visa Streams

There are two primary streams relevant to 482 visa holders:

1. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream

   • Designed for workers who have completed the required period with their nominating employer on a 482 (or 457) visa.
   • Requires nomination in the same occupation as the 482 visa.

2. Direct Entry (DE) stream

   • Suitable for applicants who have not worked long enough on a 482 visa, or who wish to change employers.
   • Requires a formal skills assessment and generally three years of post-qualification experience.

Key Eligibility Requirements

For the TRT Stream

• Work experience – As of 2024, most 482 visa holders must complete two years (previously three) of full-time employment with the sponsoring employer in the nominated occupation. Certain transitional 457 visa holders may have different requirements.
• Employer nomination – The employer must lodge a nomination demonstrating genuine need and meeting salary benchmarks (at least the Annual Market Salary Rate and the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold).
• Age – Applicants must generally be under 45, with limited exemptions (e.g. academic, medical practitioners, regional medical practitioners, or high-income earners).
• English proficiency – Equivalent to at least IELTS 6 in each band or accepted alternatives.
• Character and health – Police clearances and medical examinations are required.

For the Direct Entry Stream

• Skills assessment in the nominated occupation (required for most occupations).
• Three years of relevant work experience.
• Employer nomination offering a full-time, ongoing position.

Application Timeline

1. Preparation phase – Confirm eligibility, gather employment contracts, payslips, and performance reviews. Employers should ensure labour market testing and salary records are in order.
2. Nomination lodgement (Subclass 186) – Employer submits evidence of business operations, genuine position, salary, and training contributions.
3. Visa application lodgement – Applicant includes identity documents, skills and qualification evidence, work references, health insurance, and relationship documents for dependants.
4. Processing time – As at 2024, the Department of Home Affairs quotes 6–10 months for most TRT applications; complex cases can take longer.

Case Study: 482 Chef Transitioning to Permanent Residency

• Background – Lily, a qualified chef from Malaysia, holds a 482 Medium-Term stream visa sponsored by a restaurant in Melbourne.
• Timeline – After completing two years of full-time employment, her employer agrees to nominate her for the 186 TRT stream.
• Steps taken –
  • Employer prepares nomination evidence, including payroll records and organisational charts.
  • Lily gathers employment references, tax documents, English test results, and police clearances from Australia and Malaysia.
  • Both nomination and visa applications are lodged within the same week to minimise delays.
• Outcome – Six months later, the 186 visa is granted. Lily becomes an Australian permanent resident and can sponsor her spouse for a partner visa.

Tips for a Successful 482 to 186 Transition

• Stay compliant – Keep accurate records of working hours, leave, and pay. Avoid extended unpaid leave without Department approval.
• Communicate changes – Inform your migration agent or employer if duties change or if you consider moving to another employer.
• Check occupation lists – Ensure your occupation remains on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) for TRT eligibility.
• Plan for permanent residency early – Start preparing documents well before reaching the two-year mark to avoid gaps in visa status.
• Consider professional guidance – ENS nominations are evidence-heavy. A MARA-registered migration agent can help manage deadlines, documents, and Department correspondence.

Securing permanent residency via the 186 visa rewards strategic planning and strong employer support. With the right advice, 482 visa holders can confidently map their path to a long-term future in Australia.