05/03/2026
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
Permanent Residency Guide for Nurses
This guide is designed to help nurses understand the Subclass 186 visa pathway to Permanent Residency in
Australia, with a focus on employer sponsorship and nursing-specific requirements.
What is Subclass 186 PR?
The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa allows skilled workers to live and work permanently in
Australia when nominated by an Australian employer.
1 Permanent Residency from day one
2 Access to Medicare and social benefits
3 Ability to sponsor eligible family members
4 Pathway to Australian citizenship
Streams Under Subclass 186
1 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT): For nurses on a Subclass 482 visa who have worked with their
employer for at least 2 years.
2 Direct Entry (DE): For nurses applying from overseas or without 482 experience. Requires skills assessment
and usually 3 years experience.
3 Labour Agreement Stream: For employers with special agreements (less common in nursing).
Eligibility Requirements for Nurses
1 Registered Nurse occupation on the MLTSSL
2 AHPRA registration
3 Employer nomination for a full-time permanent role
4 Relevant qualifications and work experience
5 English language proficiency (if applicable)
6 Meet health and character requirements
Step-by-Step Application Process
1 Employer submits nomination application
2 You lodge Subclass 186 visa application
3 Complete medical examination and police clearance
4 Provide biometrics (if requested)
5 Wait for visa decision
Approximate Costs
1 Visa application fee (main applicant): ~AUD 4,770
2 Additional fees for family members
3 Medical examination and police checks
4 Migration agent fees (if used)
This guide is for general information only and does not replace professional migration advice.
