Learn how to transition from  482 visa to  186 visa. Get updated requirements, work experience rules, age exemptions, and salary thresholds for PR.

Introduction

Transitioning from a Temporary Skill Shortage (482) visa to permanent residency with the Employer Nomination Scheme (186) visa is a well-trodden pathway for skilled migration to Australia. With recent changes in 2025, the process is now more flexible and accessible for skilled workers and their employers. This guide outlines each step, highlights the latest requirements, and offers practical tips for a successful transition.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility and Gather Documentation

Before starting your transition from the 482 visa to the 186 visa, confirm you meet the updated eligibility criteria:

  • Work Experience: You must have worked full-time in your nominated occupation for at least two years within the last three years while holding a 482 visa. As of 2025, this experience can be with one or more approved sponsors, no longer just your original employer.

  • Occupation List: Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the relevant list for your stream.

  • Age: You must be under 45 years old at the time of application, unless you qualify for an age exemption (see Step 3).

  • English Proficiency: A minimum IELTS score of 6 in each band (or equivalent) is required.

  • Salary Threshold: Your employer must pay at least the market salary rate and meet the 482 visa to 186 salary threshold, currently set at AUD 73,150 or higher, depending on your occupation and market rates.

  • Health and Character: You and any family members included must meet health and character requirements.

Documentation checklist:

  • Proof of work experience (employment contracts, payslips)

  • Skills and qualifications evidence

  • English test results

  • Health and character documents

  • Employer nomination reference

Step 2: Employer Nomination and Application Preparation

The next phase is employer-driven. Your sponsoring business must:

  • Be actively and lawfully operating in Australia.

  • Have a genuine need for your skills in a full-time position available for at least two years.

  • Nominate you for the 186 visa under the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream.

  • Provide evidence of compliance with salary and employment conditions.

Application process:

  1. Employer lodges the nomination for the 186 visa, including all supporting documents.

  2. You submit your 186 visa application within six months of nomination approval, attaching all required evidence.

Step 3: Special Considerations—Age Exemptions and Flexible Work Experience

Age Exemptions:
If you are over 45, you may still qualify for the 186 visa under certain circumstances, such as being an academic, a medical practitioner in a regional area, or meeting the Fair Work High Income Threshold for three years.

Flexible Work Experience:
Recent changes allow you to combine periods of employment with different approved sponsors to meet the two-year work experience requirement. This means you are no longer “locked in” to a single employer, giving you more flexibility and bargaining power in the Australian job market.

Step 4: Final Steps—Application Submission and Outcome

  • Submit your complete application and monitor for any requests for additional information.

  • Processing times typically range from 6 to 12 months.

  • If approved, you and your immediate family members (spouse/partner and dependent children) will receive permanent residency.

Tips for success:

  • Double-check all documentation for accuracy and completeness.

  • Maintain open communication with your employer.

  • Stay updated on any changes to skilled migration policies or salary thresholds.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a 482 visa to a 186 visa is now more streamlined, offering skilled workers a clear and flexible path to permanent residency. By understanding the requirements, leveraging new work experience rules, and preparing thoroughly, you can maximize your chances of success in Australia’s skilled migration program.