Australia offers various pathways for skilled workers seeking permanent residency, with
the Subclass 186 and Subclass 187 visas being two prominent options. Though they
share similarities, these visas cater to different types of applicants and regional needs.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you understand the differences between the
Subclass 186 and Subclass 187 visas.
Subclass 186 Visa: Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
The Subclass 186 Visa, also known as the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS), is
designed for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer. This visa allows
skilled workers to live and work permanently in Australia.
Streams Under Subclass 186
1. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:
- For individuals who have worked for their nominating employer on a temporary visa (like the Subclass 482) for at least three years.
- Applicants must be under 45 years of age unless an exemption applies.
- Must meet English language requirements and possess relevant skills and qualifications.
2. Direct Entry Stream:
- For individuals who have not worked in Australia or have only worked briefly.
- Requires a positive skills assessment in the nominated occupation.
- Applicants must be under 45 years of age unless an exemption applies.
- Must meet English language requirements and possess relevant skills and qualifications.
3. Labour Agreement Stream:
- For individuals sponsored by an employer under a labour agreement.
- This stream caters to situations where standard visa programs do not meet the employer’s needs.
Subclass 187 Visa: Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS)
The Subclass 187 Visa, known as the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS),
is aimed at skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer in a designated
regional area. This visa also allows for permanent residency but focuses on regional
development.
Streams Under Subclass 187
1. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:
- Similar to the 186 TRT stream, but specifically for regional employers.
- Applicants must have worked on a temporary visa for their regional employer for at least three years.
- Must be under 45 years of age unless an exemption applies.
- Must meet English language requirements and possess relevant skills and qualifications.
2. Direct Entry Stream:
- For individuals who have not worked in Australia or have only worked briefly, nominated by a regional employer.
- Requires a positive skills assessment in the nominated occupation.
- Applicants must be under 45 years of age unless an exemption applies.
- Must meet English language requirements and possess relevant skills and qualifications.
3. Agreement Stream:
- For individuals sponsored by an employer under a labour agreement specific to regional areas.
- This stream is designed to address unique regional needs not met by standard visa programs.
Key Differences Between Subclass 186 and Subclass 187 Visas
| Subclass 186 | Subclass 187 | |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Focus | Does not have a regional restriction and can be used for employers across Australia. | Specifically, targets regional areas to address skill shortages and promote regional development. |
| Employer Location | Employers can be located anywhere in Australia. | Employers must be in a designated regional area. |
| Purpose and Benefits | Offers flexibility for skilled workers to live and work in any part of Australia, benefiting employers across the country. | Encourages migration to regional areas, helping to address regional skill shortages and contribute to regional communities. |
Commonalities
- Both visas lead to permanent residency in Australia.
- An Australian employer must nominate applicants.
- Both visas have streams for temporary residents transitioning to permanent residency, direct entry for overseas workers, and labour agreements.
- Age, skills, and English language requirements are similar, with specific exemptions applicable in certain circumstances.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Subclass 186 and Subclass 187 visas depends largely on your employment situation and location preferences. If you are open to working in regional Australia and are nominated by a regional employer, the Subclass 187 Visa could be a suitable option. Conversely, if you prefer the flexibility to work in metropolitan areas, the Subclass 186 Visa might be the better choice.
Understanding the distinctions between these visas ensures you make an informed decision aligning with your career goals and lifestyle preferences. Consulting with an immigration expert can also provide personalised guidance to navigate the application process smoothly.
