Visa 186

Three Streams to Permanent Residency

Temporary Residence Transition Stream

For Skills in Demand visa holders who have worked for their nominating employer for the required period. The most common pathway to permanent residency for healthcare workers already in Australia.

Direct to PR

Direct Entry Stream

For skilled healthcare workers who have not held a Skills in Demand visa or do not meet the work experience requirement. Requires a skills assessment and at least 3 years of relevant work experience.

Employer-specific

Labour Agreement Stream

For workers whose employer has a labour agreement with the Australian Government, including the Health Labour Agreement pathway.

Benefits of Permanent Residency

Permanent Residency

Live and work in Australia indefinitely with full work rights.

Medicare Access

Full access to Australia's public healthcare system, Medicare.

Family Inclusion

Include your partner and dependent children in your application.

Citizenship Pathway

Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Travel Freedom

Travel to and from Australia for 5 years with a resident return visa.

No Sponsor Ties

After grant, you are not bound to your employer and can change roles freely.

Key Requirements

The Skills in Demand visa has specific eligibility criteria. Our immigration lawyers will assess your situation and advise on the best approach.

Nominated by an approved employer in an eligible occupation
Meet the age requirement (under 45 at time of application). Age exemptions are available for certain medical practitioners and positions meeting the Fair Work High Income threshold
Meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent per band)
Hold relevant skills assessment or qualifications
Meet health and character requirements
Have at least 3 years relevant work experience (Direct Entry)
Have worked for nominating employer for required period (TRT)
Meet the market salary rate for the nominated position

TRT Stream: Key Changes

Recent changes to the Temporary Residence Transition stream have made it easier for healthcare workers to transition to permanent residency:

Reduced work experience requirement in some cases
Age exemptions available for certain medical practitioners and positions meeting the Fair Work High Income threshold
Concessions for regional healthcare workers
Streamlined processing for priority occupations

Immigration law changes frequently. Always consult an immigration lawyer for current requirements.

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Subclass 186