Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)

Overview

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa, or subclass 186, allows skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer to live and work in Australia on a permanent basis. It is a primary pathway to permanent residency for healthcare professionals.

Key Benefits

• Permanent Residency: Grants you and your included family members permanent residency in Australia.
• Work & Live Anywhere: Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia with unrestricted rights.
• Access to Medicare: Enrol in Australia's public healthcare scheme, Medicare.
• Study Loan Access: Eligible for certain government loans for higher education.
• Sponsor Relatives: Sponsor eligible relatives for their own permanent residency.
• Pathway to Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship once you meet the residency requirements.

Eligibility Criteria

• 1You must be nominated by an approved Australian employer.
• 2You must be under 45 years of age at the time of application (exemptions may apply).
• 3Direct Entry stream: You must provide a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority and demonstrate at least 3 years of relevant work experience.
• 4Temporary Residence Transition stream: You must have worked for your employer on a relevant temporary visa for a set period.
• 5You must meet the 'Competent English' language requirement.
• 6You must meet the mandatory health and character requirements.

Application Process