Australia Launches Permanent Visa for Skilled Workers

Australia's Department of Home Affairs has introduced the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) under the Direct Entry stream, which permits skilled workers nominated by eligible Australian employers to live and work in Australia permanently. This visa grants permanent residency upon approval, eliminating the need for a temporary status transition.

Holders of this visa can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely and may sponsor eligible family members for residency. The base application fee starts at AUD 6,140 (approximately ₦9.8 million), with concessions available for certain applicants from Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste starting July 1, 2026.

The department has not specified fixed processing times for this visa, directing applicants to a visa processing time guide on their website. The Direct Entry stream is distinct from the Temporary Residence Transition stream, which is for those already on a subclass 482 visa with their nominating employer.