186 Visa Direct Entry Stream Requirements
186 Visa DE Stream
The 186 Visa Direct Entry Stream offers skilled professionals a streamlined path DIRECT to permanent residency in Australia
186 Visa Direct Entry Stream Overview
Australia’s Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa subclass 186 is a popular pathway for skilled workers to work and live permanently in Australia. The Direct Entry Stream of this visa is beneficial for those who have already gained and can demonstrate their skills and experience in their field.
With the introduction of the new Skills in Demand Visa, the Direct Entry stream of the 186 visa becomes even more attractive. It is offering skilled migrants a more efficient pathway to permanent residency.

What is the 186 Visa Direct Entry (DE) Stream?
possess qualifications and work experience directly relevant to an occupation listed on the Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL)
passed a skills assessment.
Benefits of the 186 Visa Direct Entry Stream
Permanent Residency:
Access to Medicare:
The 186 visa is a permanent visa, meaning you and any family members gain access to Medicare as soon as you have applied for the visa if you are in Australia at time of lodgement or as soon as you arrive in Australia if you apply offshore.
Pathway to Citizenship:
Recognition of Skills and Experience:
Access to Diverse Regions:
186 Visa Direct Entry Stream Enhancements
The Skills in Demand Visa streamlines the 186 Visa Direct Entry by allowing applicants to apply directly for permanent residency
How the Skills in Demand Visa Enhances the Direct Entry Stream
The Skills in Demand Visa (SID) introduces several improvements to the Direct Entry stream of the 186 visa. The SID visa replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage visa and provides a more streamlined and flexible approach to skilled migration. Here’s how the Skills in Demand Visa enhances the benefits of the 186 Visa Direct Entry (DE) Stream:
Simplified Employer Sponsorship:
Clear Pathway to Permanent Residency:
Wider Range of Occupations:
The SID has 3 streams or pathways. Each pathway will have an occupation list. This dynamic approach allows professionals in newly emerging fields such as technology, healthcare, and green energy, to leverage the 186 visa. The list of occupations for the Core Skills pathway have been released recently and the list for the other 2 streams will follow soon. Stay tuned at our SID page for more updates.
Increased Flexibility for Regional Areas:
Eligibility Criteria for the 186 Visa Direct Entry Stream
Nomination by an Employer:
Skills Assessment:
You must have a positive skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority. It is mandatory to demonstrate your expertise in your nominated occupation.
Work Experience:
You must have at least three years of full-time, post qualification work experience in your nominated field.
Age Limit:
You must be under 45 years of age unless exemptions apply. If you are over the age of 45, you check your options here.
English Proficiency:
Health and Character Checks:
Steps to Apply for the 186 Visa DE Stream
Secure Employer Nomination:
Find an employer willing to nominate you for the 186 Visa.
Obtain a Skills Assessment:
Ensure your skills are assessed positively by the relevant authority.
Prepare Documentation:
Submit Visa Application:
Wait for Approval:
Optimising Your Pathway to Permanent Residency with the 186 Visa
The Direct Entry Visa stream acknowledges the skills and experience of applicants, enabling them to enjoy job security and contribute to the Australia workforce and economy.
You need to be informed and up to date on all the latest legislative requirements if you are looking to apply for the 186 Visa Direct Entry stream. Book a consultation today with our migration experts, and they will ensure you navigate the process correctly. With proper preparation and proper guidance, you will get the most out of what this visa stream offers you and create a future full of success in Australia.
Book a Migration Consultation
We have a ton of information on our site about various visa options and FAQs that answer most of our visitors’ questions, but if you’re still not sure where to start or you need a personalised step by step walkthrough, then schedule a call with one of our Registered Migration Agents.
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In case of questions, feel free to reach out to one of our experienced Registered Migration Agents.
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