Looking to settle in Australia permanently?
If you hold a Subclass 482 visa, you have options! The Subclass 186 visa under the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) is a common route for skilled workers aiming for permanent residency. This visa offers two main pathways: the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream and the Direct Entry (DE) stream. Let’s break down what each means in simple terms.
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
Who is it for?
The TRT stream is ideal for those already working in Australia on a Subclass 482 or 457 visa with the same employer.
What’s New?
Recent changes have made it easier for more people to apply:
Shorter Work Experience Requirement: You now only need 2 years of work with your sponsoring employer (down from 3 years).
Occupation Flexibility: Your occupation doesn’t need to be on a specific skills list, as long as it's in the same field as your current 482 or 457 visa role.
Why choose the TRT stream?
Faster Process: No skills assessment required, saving time.
Easier Transition: Ideal for those who have built a working relationship with their Australian employer.
What to keep in mind:
While the process is simpler, you still need to meet requirements like employer nomination, English proficiency, and health checks.
Direct Entry (DE) Stream
Who is it for?
The DE stream suits skilled workers who either:
Haven’t worked in Australia for long, or
Are applying from overseas.
Key Requirements:
At least 3 years of skilled work experience in your occupation.
Positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation.
Employer nomination from an approved Australian business.
Why choose the DE stream?
Direct Pathway: No need for prior Australian work experience.
Overseas Applicants Welcome: Perfect if you haven’t worked in Australia but have the right skills.
Things to consider:
The DE stream involves a skills assessment, which can extend processing times.
Make sure your occupation is on the appropriate skilled occupation list.
TRT vs. Direct Entry: Which one should you choose?
Already working in Australia for 2+ years on a 482 or 457 visa? TRT might be your fastest option.
Skilled but no long-term Australian work history? DE could be the way to go.
Both streams aim to help skilled workers secure permanent residency in Australia—just via different routes.
With recent updates, Subclass 482 visa holders now have more flexibility and faster pathways to Australian permanent residency. Whether you opt for the TRT or DE stream under the Subclass 186 visa, understanding the differences helps you choose the best path for your situation.
If you are having a hard time planning your pathway to Australia, the best thing to do is ask for assistance from certified migration experts. At Think Visa, we specialize in processing visas in these complex situations. By ensuring that all the essential documents, our team of skilled migration consultants can help you get through the process. Start your migration process with people you could trust.
