The 186 visa has three streams, each designed for a different type of applicant.
The Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream is for skilled workers already in Australia on a Subclass 482 visa who have been working for a sponsoring employer for at least two years in their nominated occupation. This is the most common pathway we see for established employees who are holders of 482 visas.
The Direct Entry (DE) stream is for applicants who have not held a 482 or 457 visa, or who have not yet worked for their sponsoring employer; or it can be used by 482 visa holders where they don’t yet meet the transition stream criteria. It requires a positive skills assessment and at least three years of relevant full work experience, along with a genuine job offer from an Australian employer.
The Labour Agreement stream applies where an employer has a formal labour agreement in place with the Australian Government – these are less common and typically apply to industries with specific workforce arrangements.
Choosing the right stream is critical. Applying under the wrong stream can result in a refusal even if you would have been eligible under a different one. We always recommend getting advice before lodging.