Client Background

• Year of birth: 1995
• Education: Studied in Melbourne
• Work experience: Returned to China after graduation, with 5 years of professional experience as a mechanical engineer
• Goal: Apply for Australian permanent residency via the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa

Case Analysis

After completing his studies in Australia, the client chose to return to China for career development. Despite being offshore, he always hoped to leverage his professional background and experience to return to Australia.

Fortunately, his occupation — Mechanical Engineer — remains a long-term shortage occupation in Australia.

Following a detailed assessment, we mapped out a pathway for him through the 186 ENS Visa (Direct Entry stream).

Application Progress

• Nomination approval: Granted within 3 months
• 186 visa grant: Approved in 9 months

From offshore lodgement to final approval, the entire process was smooth. The client successfully obtained Australian permanent residency (PR) in the shortest possible time.

Keys to Success

1. High occupation demand – Mechanical engineering is consistently on the shortage list in Australia, with strong employer demand.
2. Solid work experience – 5 years of professional experience (domestic and international) boosted his competitiveness.
3. Thorough documentation – Both employer nomination and personal documents were prepared to meet all Department of Home Affairs requirements.

Case Insights

Even when applying from outside Australia, candidates still have a strong chance of success if their occupation is on the list.

Shortage occupation + supportive employer + professional guidance = significantly faster approval.

For professionals with a similar background, the 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa is absolutely worth considering. Its biggest advantage? ➡️ One step to PR — direct grant of permanent residency.

Overview of the 186 Visa1. Direct Entry (DE) – For applicants offshore or without long-term work history in Australia2. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) – For applicants who have worked for the same employer on a 482 visa for 2–3 years3.Labour Agreement (LA) – For applicants sponsored under special industry agreements (e.g., healthcare, hospitality, agriculture)

186Core Eligibility Criteria for 186

Regardless of the stream, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Employer nomination from an Australian business
• Occupation listed (mostly on the MLTSSL – Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List)
• Under 45 years of age (with certain exemptions)
• At least Competent English (IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent)
• Satisfy health and character requirements
• Comparison of the Three 186 Visa Streams