Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) – Key 2025 Changes

Efective from 29 November 2025, the Australian Government updated the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa rules. The biggest shift is in the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream:

– Only approved‑sponsor work counts: The two‑year on‑shore work requirement now must be fulfilled with an approved work sponsor only. Time worked for a non‑sponsor employer (even in the same occupation) no longer qualifies.

– Who’s affected?
– Medical practitioners, CEOs, and other “exempt” occupations that previously could use non‑sponsor experience are now required to have the full two years with an approved sponsor.
– Current 482/TSS visa holders need to ensure their employer is an approved sponsor before applying for the 186 TRT.

– Transitional provision: Applications lodged before 29 Nov 2025 are still processed under the old rules, so timely filing could make a difference for borderline cases.

– Other flexibilities (still available):
– You can combine work periods with multiple approved sponsors.
– Time on bridging visas or parental leave still counts toward the two‑year requirement.

– Why the change? The update tightens eligibility to ensure only genuine, sponsored employment leads to permanent residency, aligning with policy goals of skilled migration integrity.

Action tip: Check if your current employer is an approved sponsor on the [Australian Government’s sponsor list] before proceeding with a 186 TRT application.