Understanding 186 Visa Processing Time: Everything You Need to Know

The 186 visa is also known as the Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186). This is one of the most sought-after ways for skilled people to live in Australia permanently. But, one of the most important catches here is the 186 visa processing time.   

Applicants must make an extra effort to understand the different aspects that affect the processing time of this visa. If you are looking to apply for this visa, make sure to read this blog to the end for more clarity on the matter.   

Breaking Down the 186 Visa Processing Time  

The processing time for the 186 visa requirements can vary depending on your specific stream and circumstances. But in general, it can range anywhere from 5 months to 16 months. There are a couple of different streams, and understanding them is important.     

1. Processing Time by Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

If you apply for the 186 visa with the temporary residence transition (TRT) stream, it can take five to nine months. This requires you to have an employment duration of approximately three years and above on a 482 or 457 visa.    

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2. Processing Time by Direct Entry (DE) Stream

You can also apply for the 186 visa direct entry stream. This could take a processing time of about seven to twelve months. This time frame is for applicants meeting the necessary requirements without a previous three-year employment contract with the employer.  

3. Processing Time by Agreement Stream 

The processing time for applying for the 186 visa through the agreement stream can take nine to sixteen months. This is for applicants under a labour agreement who have the sponsorship of their employee.    

How Long Does the 186 Visa Processing Time Take After Medical?  

It is no secret that every applicant for the 186 visa must undergo a health checkup beforehand. While this is understandable, the bigger question is how much longer it will take after completing all the necessary medical procedures. In most cases, it does not take much longer after your medical paperwork reaches and gets cleared by the Department of Home Affairs.     

Generic 186 Visa Processing Timeline After Medical   

• Medical checks will take about two to four weeks from the time they have been cleared. 
• Character evaluation and background checks tend to be in the process depending on the technicalities of the case. 
• Lastly, after confirming all the relevant clearances, the Department of Home Affairs takes about one to three months to decide.     

While the medical process is important, there are other relevant factors that can influence the timeline. There are things like employer nomination approvals or police approvals that can directly affect the processing time for the 186 visas. It is better you leverage the expertise of a registered migration agent Perth to get a better idea on this front.   

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Steps for Getting the 186 Visa 

Now that you have clarity on the 186 visa processing time, we must examine the steps for this application properly. Here is a breakdown of all the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Classification   

The first step is to determine if the applicant qualifies under any of the 186 visa streams. This could be anyone from direct entry to the agreement stream or TRT. This means you must meet all the qualifications in terms of age, language, and skills.  

Step 2: Employer Nomination  

The employer will nominate you to the Department of Home Affairs, and the processing time can vary. Once the nomination gets the necessary approval, you can proceed to the following step. 

Step 3: Documentation    

The third step requires you to gather all the necessary documentation for the visa. This will include everything from proof of employment to identification, police and health checks.  

Step 4: Online Application 

Thanks to the adoption of the internet, you can finally lodge an online application for the portal. But the only thing to remember here is to complete all papers correctly without any errors or mistakes whatsoever. 

Step 5: Medical and Character Checks   

Every applicant for the 186 visa must undergo a health checkup and police clearance to get the job done. The Department of Home Affairs will evaluate these aspects of the application and reach a conclusion accordingly.    

Step 6: Wait for the Decision 

There is nothing you can do in this final step but wait for the decision from the department. However, you can track the application’s progress regularly and keep yourself updated with the latest information. Make sure you promptly respond to the Department of Home Affairs in case they reach out for more information.       

Also Read: Subclass 186 Visa: Everything You Need To Know

Final Thoughts 

If you are planning to get a permanent visa, the 186 visa is an excellent way to proceed. You can get this visa and adhere to all the 186 visa conditions after granted and realise your career goals easily. Another thing that you can do here is to leverage the expertise of a registered migration agent in Perth and increase your chances of clearance.