Where this usually points
Situations aren't visa subclasses. Here's the service this most often maps to — the same page anyone in your position would land on.
Recommended service Employer Sponsored Visas Bring skilled workers to Australia — or move on an employer's sponsorship. Clear guidance on sponsorship, nomination and the compliance that protects both sides. See the full service →Is this you?
I'm an employer
You have a role you can't fill locally and want to sponsor a skilled worker, in the city or in regional Australia.
I'm a skilled worker
You have an Australian job offer, or an employer willing to sponsor you, and want to understand the pathway.
I'm already sponsored
You hold or held a sponsored visa and want to move toward permanent residence.
The visa pathways this usually involves
Not sure which is yours? Take the Free Visa Health Check, or compare them below.
- 494
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494)
Regional employer sponsorship, with a pathway to PR.
- Type
- Provisional
- 186
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
Permanent residence through employer nomination.
- Type
- Permanent
- 482
Skills in Demand (Subclass 482)
Employer-sponsored temporary skilled work, with a possible pathway to PR.
- Type
- Temporary
Common questions
What is the difference between the 482, 186 and 494?
The 482 is a temporary skilled visa; the 186 is a permanent employer-sponsored visa; the 494 is a provisional visa for designated regional areas. Which fits depends on the role, the business and the location.
Does the employer or the worker apply?
Both play a part: the business becomes an approved sponsor and nominates the position, and the worker lodges the visa application. We coordinate both sides.
Is labour market testing required?
For many nominations, yes — evidence that the role was genuinely advertised and could not be filled locally. Requirements change, so we confirm current rules for your case.
Can an employer-sponsored visa lead to permanent residence?
Several streams provide a pathway to permanent residence over time. Eligibility depends on the visa held, the occupation and how long the role is held.
Last updated: July 2026 · Last reviewed: July 2026
Not sure this is quite your situation?
Ninety seconds, six questions, a real answer on where you stand — including the right time to apply. You'll speak directly with Registered Migration Agent (RMA) Sunil Uprety (MARN: 2318234).