• Ensure that you meet the basic eligibility criteria for the Subclass 186 visa:
  • Be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
  • Have at least three years of relevant work experience in your nominated occupation.
  • Hold qualifications that are recognized in Australia for your occupation.
  • Meet health and character requirements.
• Your occupation must be listed on the eligible skilled occupations list.
• Review the specific requirements based on your occupation, as some occupations may have additional eligibility criteria.

• Required for applicants applying through the Direct Entry Stream

• Ensure the assessment is positive and aligns with the nominated occupation

• A valid skill assessment is crucial for visa processing

• Identify the relevant skill assessment authority for your occupation

• Submit the required documents, including work experience proofs, educational qualifications, and identification

• Follow the specific requirements set by the assessing authority

• Meet the required English language proficiency level

• Take an approved test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL

• Check the specific score requirements for your visa stream

• Your employer must nominate you for the Subclass 186 visa.
  • The employer must be an approved sponsor and offer a permanent, full-time position that matches your nominated occupation.
  • The employer must submit a nomination application to the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of the position’s details and your eligibility for the role.
• Some employers may be required to prove that they have tested the local labor market to ensure no suitable Australian workers are available for the position.

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.

• This step is required even if your employer is nominating you for the visa.
• In the EOI, provide details about your qualifications, work experience, and English language skills.
• The Department of Home Affairs will review your EOI to determine your eligibility and rank you against other applicants.

If your EOI is selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.

• The invitation will include specific instructions on how to submit your visa application.
• It is important to apply for the visa within the time frame mentioned in the invitation, as failing to do so may result in the invitation being withdrawn.

Prepare and gather all required documents for your visa application.

• This includes identification documents (e.g., passport, birth certificate).
• Your positive skills assessment, English language test results (if applicable), and any relevant employment references.
• Other supporting documents such as educational certificates, police clearance certificates, and any documentation requested by the Department of Home Affairs.

• Complete the required health checks to meet Australian health requirements.
  • You will be asked to undergo a medical examination by an approved doctor.
  • Provide police clearance certificates from any countries you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years to meet the character requirements.
• Any health or character concerns may delay the visa processing time.

• After submitting your complete visa application, the Department of Home Affairs will begin processing your visa.
  • Processing times can vary depending on the complexity of your application and the volume of applications being processed.
  • During this time, the Department may request additional information or documentation to support your application.
• Monitor your application status and be prepared to respond to any requests promptly to avoid delays.

Once your visa application is approved, you will be granted the Subclass 186 visa.

• The visa allows you to live and work in Australia permanently.
• You can enjoy the benefits of permanent residency, including access to healthcare, education, and the ability to apply for Australian citizenship in the future.
• Ensure you comply with all visa conditions to maintain your visa status.