Are you considering moving to Australia for work? The Employer Nomination Visa (subclass 186) is a fantastic opportunity for skilled workers to secure permanent residency Down Under. This visa allows Australian employers to sponsor overseas workers for positions they are unable to fill locally. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of the Employer Nomination Visa process, providing you with a clear and comprehensive understanding of the requirements and steps involved.
Understanding the Employer Nomination Visa (subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Visa (subclass 186) is part of Australia’s General Skilled Migration program, designed to attract highly skilled workers to fill critical roles in the Australian labor market. This visa is a two-step process, involving both employer nomination and visa application.
Employer Nomination Process
2.1. Eligibility Criteria for Employers
To nominate a foreign worker for the Employer Nomination Visa, the Australian employer must meet certain eligibility requirements. This includes actively and lawfully operating a business in Australia, demonstrating a genuine need for the skilled position, and abiding by Australian workplace laws.
2.2. Choosing the Right Occupation
Before proceeding with the nomination, employers need to ensure that the position they wish to nominate a foreign worker for is listed on the relevant occupation lists. These lists are subject to change, so it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest updates from the Department of Home Affairs.
2.3. Labour Market Testing (LMT)
Employers must conduct Labor Market Testing to demonstrate that they have unsuccessfully attempted to fill the position with an Australian worker. LMT involves advertising the position through various channels and providing evidence of the efforts made to recruit locally.
2.4. Nomination Application Submission
Once the employer has gathered all the necessary documentation, they can proceed with the nomination application through the online platform provided by the Department of Home Affairs.
Visa Application Process
3.1. Visa Eligibility Criteria
As a prospective visa applicant, you must ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the Employer Nomination Visa. This includes having the necessary skills, qualifications, and work experience relevant to the nominated occupation, as well as satisfying health and character requirements.
3.2. Expression of Interest (EOI)
To apply for the visa, you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, the online platform used by the Australian government to manage skilled migration applications.
3.3. Receiving an Invitation to Apply
If your EOI meets the necessary requirements and your skills are in demand, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). This ITA will outline the next steps for submitting your visa application.
3.4. Visa Application Submission
Once you have received the ITA, you can proceed with the visa application. Provide all the required documents, including evidence of your skills, qualifications, and work experience, as well as health and character certificates.
Visa Decision and Transition to Permanent Residency
After your visa application is lodged, the Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and make a decision. If successful, you will be granted the Employer Nomination Visa, allowing you to work and live in Australia temporarily. After meeting specific residency and work requirements, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Temporary Residence Transition stream.
Conclusion
The Employer Nomination Visa process in Australia may seem complex at first, but with the right guidance and understanding, it can be a rewarding pathway to securing your future in Australia. By following the steps outlined in this article and staying informed about the latest updates, you can increase your chances of a successful application. Good luck on your journey towards obtaining the Employer Nomination Visa and embracing all that Australia has to offer!