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Subclass 186 – Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

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

Need help with employer sponsored visas? Book a telephonic consultation with our MARA-registered agents (Reg# 2217775).

What Is the 186 TRT Stream?

Transition from 482

A direct employer-sponsored PR pathway for workers already on a Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) visa who have proven their value to their Australian employer.

Permanent Residency

Grants permanent residency on approval — including spouse and dependent children — with full Medicare access and a pathway to Australian citizenship.

2+ Years Experience

Only 2 years of full-time employment with the sponsoring employer is required under the current rules — down from the previous 3-year requirement.

Same Occupation & Employer

The nomination must be for the same occupation and employer as the 482 visa. Expanded eligibility now covers the majority of 482 occupations with no strict occupation list restriction.

Eligibility

Working on 482 for 2 Years

Must hold a Subclass 482 visa (any stream) and have worked full-time for the nominating employer for at least 2 years in the same occupation.

Same Employer

The employer must be an approved Standard Business Sponsor with a strong record of meeting sponsorship obligations, nominating a genuine ongoing full-time role at market salary.

Under 45

Applicants must generally be under 45 years of age at the time of nomination, unless an exemption applies under the relevant stream or occupation.

Skills Assessment Waiver Possible

A formal skills assessment is usually not required under the TRT stream — a key advantage over the Direct Entry stream for many applicants.

English Proficiency

Applicants must hold at least Competent English, demonstrated via an approved test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL, unless an exemption applies.

Health & Character

All applicants and included family members must satisfy standard Australian immigration health examinations and character requirements.

Key Benefits over the Direct Entry Stream

No Skills Assessment (Often)

TRT stream typically waives the formal skills assessment requirement, saving time and cost compared to the Direct Entry stream which usually mandates one.

Employer Continuity

Builds on an established employment relationship — the employer's existing sponsorship obligations and business records support a stronger, more streamlined nomination.

Waiver Options

Certain age and other requirement waivers may be available under TRT that are not accessible through the Direct Entry stream, offering additional flexibility.

PR Pathway from Temp Visa

Converts your temporary 482 status directly to permanent residency — no need to leave Australia or restart a points-based skilled migration pathway.

How ABEE'S Consultancy Helps

1

Eligibility Review

We assess your 482 employment history, occupation alignment, salary compliance, and sponsorship records to confirm TRT eligibility before lodgement.

2

Nomination & Application Preparation

We prepare the employer nomination and employee visa application — including structured employer statements, employment records, English evidence, and health and character documentation.

3

End-to-End Lodgement Support

From initial assessment through to Department approval, our MARA-registered agents guide you and your employer through every stage of the TRT process.

Documents Required

  • Current Subclass 482 visa grant letter
  • Passport and identity documents for applicant and family members
  • Employment records (payslips, tax records, contracts covering 2-year period)
  • Employer nomination documents (business financials, position description, market salary evidence)
  • English language test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or equivalent)
  • Health examination results (completed via BUPA or approved panel physician)
  • Police clearances from Australia and all countries of residence (past 10 years)
  • Skills assessment (if applicable to occupation)

Frequently Asked Questions

If you change employers, you must restart the 2-year employment period with the new sponsor. The TRT stream requires continuity with the same employer who nominates you for the 186 visa.

Usually not required for the TRT stream — this is one of its key advantages. Certain occupations may still require one; our agents will confirm whether this applies to your situation.

Yes. Partners and dependent children included in the application also receive permanent residency when the primary applicant is granted the Subclass 186 visa.

Need Expert Guidance?

Our MARA-registered consultants are here to help you navigate the process.

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