Transitioning from a 482 Visa to Permanent Residency – Employer-Sponsored Work Visas

Understanding the 186 TRT Visa for Permanent Residency

If you’re dreaming of making Australia your home and considering pathways to permanent residency (PR), the 186 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Visa may be your ticket. This visa has become more accessible for those on the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 Visa, thanks to recent changes in Australian immigration policies.

Why Choose the 186 TRT Visa?

The 186 TRT Visa allows eligible 482 Visa holders to transition into PR after working in Australia for just two years. Here’s why this is beneficial:

1. Work Flexibility: The PR pathway is tied to your ability to work in Australia rather than your employer. This means movement between jobs is more straightforward.
2. Types of Employment Count: Work done with a previous employer can contribute towards the two-year requirement, supporting both you and your new employer.
3. Nominated Occupation: Your occupation doesn’t necessarily need to remain listed to apply for the 186 TRT Visa, giving you greater certainty.

Key Requirements for the 186 TRT Visa

To apply for the 186 TRT Visa, certain conditions must be met:

• Sponsorship: You must be nominated by your current employer who holds a valid 482 Visa sponsorship.
• English Proficiency: A “Competent” level of English is typically required.
• Age Limit: Generally, applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of application.
• Salary Threshold: You should earn at least the Core Skills Income Threshold (currently $76,515, subject to annual indexing).
• Health and Character: You must meet Australia’s health and character standards.

Application Process and Timing

Processing times for the 186 TRT Visa can vary. As of 1 July 2025, 50% of applications are processed within 14 months, while 90% are completed in 17 months. However, many applications can often be resolved in under a year, based on the experiences of migration agents.

Planning Your Transition to PR

If you’re an employer, it’s a great time to consider how you can support your employees on 482 Visas in their journey towards PR. Here are some tips:

• Regularly Review Eligibility: Ensure your employees understand their PR options and requirements.
• Budget for Salary Changes: Keep an eye on the Core Skills Income Threshold and budget accordingly.
• Consider Employee Mobility: Hiring 482 Visa holders who may already have part of the two-year work experience completed can speed up the process.

What’s Next?

With policies evolving to support skilled migration, now is an excellent time to reassess your sponsorship strategies or even seek professional advice to navigate the 186 TRT Visa process. If you have questions about your specific situation or if you’re an international job seeker curious about your next steps, reaching out to a Registered Migration Agent can help clarify your options.

Have your say!

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