Unlike the 482 visa, for the 186 visa Direct Entry Stream, Labour Market testing is not 100% a requirement. So you don’t need to advertise the position and demonstrate you couldn’t find a suitable Australian to fill the role.
186 Visa
Down below you have the most commonly asked questions about 186 Visa, but in case you don't find what you're looking for then feel free to do another search or contact our support team.
Help Center | 186 Visa
How much do I have to be paid for the 186 visa?
You must be paid at least the Annual Market Salary Rate for your occupation and location, and this must be equal to or above the government’s minimum salary floor for the visa. For the 186 visa, this floor is now referred to as the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT),...
Can I apply for the 186 visa without an employer?
No, you will need an employer to sponsor your visa in order to apply for the 186 visa.
Do I need paid work experience in order to apply for the 186 visa?
Yes, the work experience for the 186 visa must be paid. In addition the work must be done at the required skill level. This doesn’t mean that you have worked in the occupation for 3 years. It will usually mean you have worked in the occupation for 3 years post...
If my occupation is not on the skills occupations list, can I still apply for the 186 visa?
No. For the Direct Entry stream, your occupation must appear on the Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL), which sets out the roles the government has identified as being in shortage or otherwise eligible for skilled sponsorship. If your occupation isn't listed, you...
Do I need a skills assessment in order to apply for the 186 visa?
It depends. If you are applying under the TRT Stream, skills assessment is generally not required. However, for Direct Entry stream, skills assessment is mandatory.
Do I need to take an English test in order to apply for the ENS 186 visa?
Yes, you will need to take an English test (ex. IELTs) and have competent English in order to apply for the 186 visa, unless you hold a passport from NZ, USA, Ireland, UK or Canada.
Is the ENS 186 Visa permanent?
Yes, the 186 ENS visa is permanent. Once you receive it, you are a permanent resident of Australia.
Can I apply for the 186 visa while outside Australia?
You can apply for the ENS 186 visa from inside or outside Australia.