Understanding new pathways to Australian Permanent Residency via 186 visa reforms for 457/482 visa holders

By Sarah
Nov 30, 2023
Posted in Employer Sponsored Visas

A new era in Australian immigration has begun with the 25th November implementation of changes to the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 visa. These changes to the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream opens up exciting new opportunities for 457 and 482 visa holders aiming for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia.

Key Australian Visas: Understanding the Foundations of Employer Sponsored Migration

Understanding the employer sponsored framework will help you understand the new changes and pathways available to you. Let’s dive in.

The 457 visa was a temporary work visa allowing Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers. The 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa replaced the 457 and permits employers to address labour shortages by bringing in skilled workers for up to four years. The 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa offers two streams for PR: the Direct Entry (DE) stream, for skilled workers with a positive skills assessment and at least three years’ experience, and the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream, for those who already hold a 457 or 482 visa and have worked with their sponsoring employer in Australia for a certain period.

Each visa plays a distinct role in shaping Australia’s skilled workforce and offers unique pathways for aspiring permanent residents.

Exploring the 186 TRT and DE Visa Streams

Looking more closely at the 186 visa streams, the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) and Direct Entry (DE) paths offer unique opportunities and requirements for skilled professionals seeking Australian Permanent Residency.

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:

Who is it for?
Designed for those holding a 457 or 482 visas, the TRT stream is now more accessible than ever.
What’s New?
TSS 482 visa holders with occupations on the Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) may now seek PR under this stream.
The required employment period with a sponsoring employer has been reduced from three to two years.
Advantages
No skills assessment needed; streamlined process for quicker PR attainment.
Considerations
While the process is more streamlined, ensuring all criteria are met, including employer nomination, occupation eligibility, English and more, is crucial.

Direct Entry (DE) Stream:

Who is it for?
Ideal for skilled individuals with occupations on the MLTSSL, available for applicants both in and outside Australia.
Requirements
Focus on skilled experience (min three years), positive skill assessment, and employer nomination.
Advantages
A straightforward PR pathway without the need to have worked in Australia
Considerations
Aligning the position to an occupation and obtaining a positive skills assessment is key, and understanding the criteria is essential to determine eligibility.

The Impact of These Changes

The recent reforms are a game-changer in the Australian skilled migration landscape. They aim to address skill shortages and enhance the skilled migration programme, providing a more accessible and streamlined pathway to PR for many skilled workers who are already in Australia, providing valuable support to their employers across a range of occupations.

This is particularly significant for those in occupations previously not eligible under the TRT stream.

Navigating the Application Process

Applying for PR can be complex, and understanding the nuances of each stream is crucial. Here’s where Aspire Australia steps in:

Personalised Consultation: Our team offers tailored advice, helping you determine the most suitable pathway based on your circumstances.
Application Assistance: From gathering the required documents to ensuring your application is comprehensive and compliant, we guide you every step of the way.
Updates and Follow-Ups: We keep you informed throughout the process, providing clarity and peace of mind.

Your Pathway to Australian PR

With these changes, your journey to Australian PR is more straightforward and accessible. Your migration Superheroes at Aspire Australia are committed to guiding you through this journey. Whether you are just starting to explore your options for your first employer-sponsored visa or are in Australia and ready to embark on the application process, we are here to help.