Need help with employer-sponsored visas? Book a telephonic consultation with our MARA-registered agents (Reg# 2217775).
Why Compare Employer-Sponsored Visas?
Different Purposes
Each visa serves a different need — temporary work, permanent residency, or regional employment — with distinct conditions and obligations.
PR Pathways Differ
The 186 grants PR directly. The 482 transitions to PR via 186 TRT after 3 years. The 494 leads to PR via Subclass 191 after 3 years in regional Australia.
Occupation Lists Differ
Each visa references different occupation lists — CSOL for 482, MLTSSL for 186 DE, and a regional occupation list for 494.
Skills Assessment Requirements Vary
186 DE and 494 usually require a skills assessment. 186 TRT often waives it. 482 requirements depend on the stream and occupation.
Quick Summary
Visa Comparison at a Glance
| Visa | Type | Duration | PR Pathway | Skills Assessment | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 482 TSS | Temporary | 2–4 years | Via 186 TRT | Stream dependent | No limit |
| 186 DE | Permanent | Permanent | Direct PR | Required | Under 45 |
| 186 TRT | Permanent | Permanent | Direct PR | Often waived | Under 45 |
| 494 | Provisional | 5 years | Via 191 | Required | Under 45 |
| 407 | Temporary | Up to 2 years | No direct | Not required | No limit |
Which Visa Is Right for You?
Seeking PR Directly
→ Subclass 186 DE Stream. Requires a positive skills assessment and 3 years work experience. Grants permanent residency immediately on approval.
Currently on Subclass 482
→ Subclass 186 TRT Stream. After 3 years with the same employer in the same occupation, transition to permanent residency — often without a skills assessment.
Open to Regional Australia
→ Subclass 494. Work with a regional employer for 5 years, then apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa. Ideal if you don't yet qualify for 186.
How ABEE'S Consultancy Helps
Visa Strategy Session
We assess your occupation, experience, employer, and long-term goals to recommend the best visa pathway and PR timeline.
Sponsorship & Nomination
We handle the employer's Standard Business Sponsorship, nomination application, labour market testing compliance, and training levy obligations.
Visa Application
We prepare and lodge the visa application with all supporting documents, manage Departmental requests, and keep both employer and applicant informed at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can change employers but a new sponsorship and nomination must be approved first. The 3-year TRT PR clock generally resets with a new employer.
Employers must advertise the position locally for at least 28 days and demonstrate no suitable Australian worker was available before sponsoring an overseas worker.
Yes. Spouse/partner and dependent children can be included in your application for 482, 186, and 494. Family members receive work rights on these visas.