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Subclass 186 – Direct Entry (DE) Stream

Last updated: 19 March 2026 · Reviewed by: ABEE'S Consultancy Team

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The Subclass 186 Direct Entry (DE) Stream allows qualified, experienced professionals to obtain Australian permanent residency without needing prior long-term employment on a temporary visa.

This pathway is ideal for skilled migrants who are nominated directly by an employer for a permanent, full-time position.

Key Features of 186 DE

Permanent Residency

Permanent residency granted on approval.

Offshore & Onshore

Suitable for overseas applicants and onshore professionals.

Skills Assessment

Requires a positive skills assessment (most occupations).

Experience

Requires 3 years of skilled experience in the nominated occupation.

Eligibility Requirements

Employer Requirements

  • Be an approved Standard Business Sponsor
  • Nominate an occupation eligible for permanent sponsorship
  • Demonstrate the position is genuine and ongoing
  • Meet salary standards aligned with the Australian labour market
  • Comply with all employer obligations

Applicant Requirements

  • Have a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation
  • Have at least 3 years of relevant skilled work experience
  • Meet the age requirement (under 45 years) unless exempt
  • Hold Competent English
  • Meet health and character requirements

Application Process

Step 1: Skills Assessment

Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.

Step 2: Employer Nomination

Employer submits nomination including role description, business justification, market salary evidence, and organisational need.

Step 3: Visa Application

Applicant submits identity documents, qualifications and experience evidence, English test results, and police clearance/medicals.

Step 4: Department Assessment & PR Grant

On approval, the applicant and included dependants become Australian permanent residents.

Benefits of the DE Stream

Direct PR

Direct PR without needing a 482 visa.

Global Talent

Recognises strong skills and global qualifications.

Family Security

Long-term security for families.

Citizenship

Clear pathway to citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a skills assessment mandatory?

Yes — for most occupations.

Can I apply from overseas?

Yes, DE is fully open to offshore applicants.

Does my employer need to be a sponsor?

Yes, the employer must be approved to nominate you.

Can my partner be included?

Yes — partners and dependent children are included as secondary applicants.

Is English required?

Yes. At least Competent English is mandatory unless exempt.

ABEE'S Consultancy – DE Stream Services

ABEE'S Consultancy prepares comprehensive Direct Entry applications, including:

  • Skills assessment guidance
  • Employer nomination structuring
  • Occupation and salary verification
  • Documented evidence of skills and employment
  • PR application preparation for you and your family

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