186 Visa Processing Time

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer. If you’re applying for this visa, understanding the 186 visa processing time is crucial for planning your move to Australia.

In this guide, we will cover:

✅ 186 visa processing time
✅ Factors affecting processing time
✅ Processing time for each stream (Direct Entry, TRT, and Labour Agreement)
✅ How to speed up your application
✅ Common reasons for delays
✅ 186 visa cost and requirements

Let’s explore the details!

186 Visa Processing Time

The processing time for the Subclass 186 Visa depends on the stream under which you apply. The Australian Department of Home Affairs regularly updates processing times based on the number of applications received.

Current Processing Times for 186 Visa

Visa Stream	50% of Applications Processed In	90% of Applications Processed In
Direct Entry (DE) Stream	5 months	12 months
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream	4 months	10 months
Labour Agreement Stream	7 months	15 months

📌 These are average processing times and may change based on individual cases.

Factors Affecting 186 Visa Processing Time

Several factors influence how long it takes to process your 186 visa application:

✅ Completeness of application – Ensure all required documents are submitted.
✅ Employer nomination approval – Your sponsoring employer must have their nomination approved.
✅ Health and character checks – Delays in medical exams or police clearance can slow down processing.
✅ Request for additional information – If immigration officers need more details, it can extend the timeline.
✅ High application volume – More applications mean longer processing times.
✅ Changes in immigration policy – Government updates can affect processing speeds.

186 Visa Processing Time by Stream

1. Direct Entry (DE) Stream Processing Time

The Direct Entry stream is for skilled workers who do not have prior Australian work experience.

🔹 Processing Time: 5–12 months
🔹 Who Can Apply?

• Nominated by an Australian employer
• Have at least 3 years of relevant work experience
• Meet English language requirements

2. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream Processing Time

The TRT stream is for 482 TSS visa or 457 visa holders who have worked for their employer for at least 2–3 years.

🔹 Processing Time: 4–10 months
🔹 Who Can Apply?

• Must have worked for the same employer for at least 2 years (or 3 years if holding a 482 visa)
• Meet skill and English language requirements

3. Labour Agreement Stream Processing Time

This stream is for applicants nominated under a Labour Agreement between their employer and the Australian government.

🔹 Processing Time: 7–15 months
🔹 Who Can Apply?

• Must be sponsored by an employer under a Labour Agreement
• Occupation must be listed in the agreement

How to Speed Up Your 186 Visa Application

To avoid unnecessary delays, follow these tips:

✅ Submit a complete application – Ensure all required documents are included.
✅ Ensure employer nomination is approved – Your employer must submit a valid nomination.
✅ Get medical and police checks early – These checks can take weeks, so do them as soon as possible.
✅ Provide accurate information – Errors or missing details can lead to processing delays.
✅ Use an immigration agent or lawyer – A professional can help ensure your application is complete.

📌 Tip: Submitting all required documents upfront can reduce processing time by several months!

Common Reasons for 186 Visa Delays

If your visa is taking longer than expected, it may be due to:

🚨 Incomplete application – Missing documents or incorrect details.
🚨 Health or character concerns – If additional checks are needed, processing can be delayed.
🚨 Employer nomination issues – If your employer’s nomination is not approved, your application may be put on hold.
🚨 Additional document requests – If the immigration department asks for more information, it can extend processing time.

186 Visa Cost and Requirements

Cost of 186 Visa

Application Stage	Cost (AUD)
Primary Applicant	$4,640
Additional Adult (18+)	$2,320
Additional Child (<18)	$1,160

186 Visa Requirements

✅ Be nominated by an Australian employer
✅ Have at least 3 years of relevant work experience
✅ Meet English language requirements
✅ Pass health and character checks

The Subclass 186 Visa is an excellent pathway to Australian permanent residency for skilled workers. However, the 186 visa processing time can vary depending on the stream you apply under and how well-prepared your application is.

✅ Direct Entry Stream: 5–12 months
✅ TRT Stream: 4–10 months
✅ Labour Agreement Stream: 7–15 months

To speed up your application, ensure all documents are provided, get medical and police checks early, and make sure your employer’s nomination is approved.

📢 Need Help With Your 186 Visa? Contact an immigration expert to assist with your application and reduce delays!

Start your journey to Australian PR today!