Migration Pathways

Explore common temporary-to-permanent pathways for migrating to Australia. Find the route that best matches your situation.

482 → 186 (Employer Sponsored)

Temporary Skill Shortage → Employer Nomination Scheme

2-3 years on 482, then apply for 186 TRT

Step-by-Step Process

1

Obtain a 482 visa (Medium-term stream) sponsored by your employer

2

Work for your nominating employer for at least 2-3 years

3

Employer nominates you under the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream

4

Apply for Subclass 186 permanent visa

5

Receive permanent residency upon approval

💡 Key Tips

  • Only medium-term stream 482 holders are eligible (not short-term)
  • Must work for the same employer who nominates you
  • Age exemptions may apply if earning above the high-income threshold
482 TSS186 ENS

491 → 191 (Regional Pathway)

Skilled Work Regional → Permanent Residence Regional

3 years on 491, then apply for 191

Step-by-Step Process

1

Obtain a 491 visa through state/territory nomination or family sponsorship

2

Live and work in a designated regional area for at least 3 years

3

Meet the minimum income requirement (AUD $53,900+ per year)

4

Apply for Subclass 191 permanent visa

5

Receive permanent residency upon approval

💡 Key Tips

  • You must have earned at least AUD $53,900/year (taxable income) for 3 years
  • Regional areas include all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane
  • The 191 visa is relatively straightforward if you meet the income and residency requirements
491 Regional191 PR Regional

Student → 189/190 (Study Pathway)

Student Visa → Skilled Independent/Nominated

2-4 years study + post-study work, then apply

Step-by-Step Process

1

Complete at least 2 academic years of study in Australia (92 weeks)

2

Obtain a post-study work visa (Subclass 485 — Graduate Temporary)

3

Gain Australian work experience and improve English scores

4

Get your skills assessed by the relevant authority

5

Submit an EOI through SkillSelect and receive an invitation

6

Apply for Subclass 189 or 190 visa

💡 Key Tips

  • Australian study gives you 5 points in the points test
  • You may also gain points for Professional Year program (5 points)
  • Regional study can qualify you for additional points and 491 nomination
  • STEM PhD graduates can claim specialist education points (10 points)
189 Independent190 Nominated

WHM → 482 → 186 (Working Holiday)

Working Holiday Maker → TSS → ENS

1-2 years WHM + 2-3 years 482, then 186

Step-by-Step Process

1

Enter Australia on a Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417 or 462)

2

Gain work experience and build relationships with employers

3

Find an employer willing to sponsor you for a 482 visa

4

Transition to a 482 visa (employer sponsored)

5

After 2-3 years on 482, apply for 186 permanent visa through TRT stream

💡 Key Tips

  • Working Holiday visa is available to passport holders of eligible countries aged 18-30 (35 for some)
  • Use the WHM period to network and find sponsor employers
  • Ensure your work experience aligns with a skilled occupation list
  • This is a longer pathway but can work well for those without formal qualifications
482 TSS186 ENS