The Australian Subclass 186 visa generally takes 11 to 12 months to get processed. However, it completely depends on the type of visa stream you are opting for. While 75% of the applications take 83 days to get processed, 90% take around six to ten months for processing. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Visa permits skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian-based employer to migrate and settle permanently in the country.
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What are the different streams of Subclass 186 visas?
The following are three different types of streams in Subclass 186 visa:
- Direct entry: Foreign nationals who are nominated by an Australian employer for a job that is listed under the skilled occupation list can apply through this stream. It is a pathway towards achieving permanent residency in Australia.
- Labor Agreement stream: Foreign individuals who came into a labor agreement with the government of Australia and are looking for a nomination for skilled worker positions listed on the skilled occupation list can apply through this stream.
- Temporary Residence Stream: Foreign nationals who have already been working in Australia for at least three years on a temporary visa and are nominated by the same employer can apply through this stream.

The table below has the lists of streams with the required processing time:
|
Types of Subclass 186 |
Processing time |
|
Direct Entry Stream |
11 weeks - 24 weeks |
|
Labour Agreement Stream |
11 weeks - 24 weeks |
|
Temporary Residence Transition Stream |
11 weeks - 40 weeks |
What is the cost of the Subclass 186 visa?
The cost of the Subclass 186 visa is around AUD 4,640 for the main applicant. However, additional costs are applicable for partners and children.
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