Australia's employer-sponsored visas let a business sponsor a skilled worker it cannot readily find locally. Two matter most: the temporary Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) and the permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186). They are often used together, the 482 first, then the 186 for permanent residency. Here is how they compare. This is general information, not advice.
Skills in Demand (subclass 482)
The 482 lets an approved employer sponsor a skilled worker to fill a position temporarily. It replaced the older TSS visa in late 2024 and runs in streams (broadly a Core Skills stream, a Specialist Skills stream, and a Labour Agreement stream), each with its own occupation and income requirements. It is a temporary visa, but for many people it is the practical first step toward permanent residency.
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
The 186 is a permanent visa. Its most common route, the Temporary Residence Transition stream, is designed for workers who have already worked for their sponsoring employer on an eligible visa (generally for around two years). There is also a Direct Entry stream for those who qualify without that transition period, and a Labour Agreement stream.
How they work together
The typical journey is: an employer sponsors you on a 482, you work in the role, and after meeting the requirements you move to permanent residency through the 186 (Temporary Residence Transition). Planning both steps from the outset makes the transition far smoother.
| 482 Skills in Demand | 186 Employer Nomination | |
|---|---|---|
| Visa type | Temporary | Permanent |
| Needs an employer sponsor | Yes | Yes |
| Main use | Fill a role temporarily; a step toward PR | Permanent residency, often after time on a 482 |
| Common route to it | Employer nomination in an eligible stream | Temporary Residence Transition (after generally two years) or Direct Entry |
For workers and for employers
These visas have two sides. A worker needs the right occupation, skills and an employer willing to sponsor. An employer needs to be an approved sponsor, nominate a genuine position, and meet its sponsorship obligations. We act for both, so the process is clear on each side.
- Workers: check your occupation, skills assessment and English early
- Employers: sponsorship approval, a genuine position and salary that meets the threshold
- Both: plan the 482 to 186 transition from the start
A realistic word
Occupation lists, income thresholds and stream rules change, and employer sponsorship carries real obligations. There is no guaranteed outcome. Getting the structure right early, for both the worker and the business, is what avoids costly missteps.
How Marga helps
We assess the occupation and stream, guide sponsor accreditation and nomination, prepare the visa application, and plan the pathway from the temporary 482 to permanent residency. See our employer-sponsored visa service.
Common questions
Can a 482 visa lead to permanent residency?
Often yes, commonly through the Employer Nomination Scheme (186) Temporary Residence Transition stream after meeting the requirements. We plan this from the start.
How long must I work for my employer before the 186?
The Temporary Residence Transition stream generally expects around two years with your sponsoring employer on an eligible visa. Requirements can change, so we confirm for your case.
We are an employer. Can you help us sponsor a worker?
Yes. We assist businesses with sponsorship approval, nomination and obligations, alongside the worker's visa.
What is the difference between 482 and 186?
In short, the 482 is temporary and the 186 is permanent. Many people use the 482 first and transition to the 186 for permanent residency.
This article is general information only and current as at July 2026. Migration law, occupation lists and thresholds change frequently. It is not migration or legal advice and does not guarantee any outcome. For advice about your situation, book a consultation with our registered migration agent.