Simplified Pathways to Permanent Residency: Key Changes to the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Visa
As of 7 December 2024, the Australian Government has introduced significant changes to the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visa. These updates aim to create smoother pathways for skilled migrants in occupations of national shortage to achieve permanent residency.
This blog explores the key changes made to the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) and Direct Entry (DE) streams under this visa, offering clarity and insights into how these updates benefit skilled migrants.
Changes to the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
| CHANGES | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| 1. Expanded Work Experience Criteria | Applicants for the TRT stream can now: ✅ Count all periods of sponsored employment towards the 2-year work experience requirement, not limited to employment with their current sponsor. ✅ Include work experience in related fields or roles following a promotion toward meeting this requirement. This flexibility acknowledges the diversity of skilled migrants’ career paths and their valuable contributions to Australia’s workforce. |
| 2. Evidence-Based Work Experience | Instead of relying on their nominating employer, applicants must provide their own evidence to demonstrate they meet the work experience requirements. This allows greater autonomy and fairness in the application process. |
| 3. Introduction of Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) | The CSIT replaces the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), with the benchmark set at AUD 73,150 (indexed annually). This ensures skilled migrants earn competitive salaries aligned with the Australian labour market. |
| 4. Age Exemptions | Existing age exemptions under the Temporary Skill Shortage visa remain applicable, such as: ➡️ Exemptions for regional medical practitioners. ➡️ Exemptions for high-income applicants. For others, the age limit of 45 years applies at the time of application. |
| 5. Exclusion of Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187) | Changes to the TRT stream do not extend to the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187), which was closed in 2019. However, transitional groups eligible for this program can still access it under limited circumstances. |
Changes to the Direct Entry (DE) Stream
| CHANGES | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| 1. Introduction of the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) | The modernised CSOL replaces the outdated Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List. This comprehensive list is based on labor market analysis and consultations by Jobs and Skills Australia, targeting priority sectors such as: ➡️Construction ➡️Cyber Security ➡️Agriculture ➡️Health and Education This strategic update ensures Australia attracts the skills it needs most. You can view the full list at the New Core Skills Occupation List. |
| 2. Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) Applies | The CSIT also applies to the Direct Entry stream, maintaining parity across both streams with an income threshold of AUD 73,150 (indexed annually). |
Why These Changes Matter?
The updated Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visa reflects the Australian Government’s commitment to aligning migration policies with economic needs. By streamlining pathways to permanent residency, these changes:
- Empower skilled migrants with clearer application criteria.
- Address critical skill shortages across various sectors.
- Encourage long-term contributions to Australia’s economy and society.
These changes are essential for enhancing Australia’s economic growth and attracting top talent through the Subclass 186 visa.
Take the Next Step
Are you a skilled migrant looking to transition to permanent residency in Australia? Understanding these changes is crucial to navigating the application process.
For tailored advice and expert assistance, Contact us at Emigrate Lawyers. Let us help you secure your future in Australia!
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult with a qualified migration lawyer.
Source: Department of Home Affairs
