The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa is a permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an eligible Australian employer. The appropriate stream depends on your occupation, sponsored employment history and the employer’s arrangements.

Direct Entry stream

This pathway can suit applicants seeking permanent residence directly, including eligible applicants overseas. Your occupation must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). Most applicants need a positive skills assessment and at least three years of relevant work experience, unless exempt. You usually need to be under 45 when applying and have competent English. Mandatory occupational licensing or registration must also be satisfied.

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream

This pathway is for eligible primary subclass 457 or 482 holders, and certain bridging visa holders. You generally need two years of eligible full-time sponsored employment in Australia during the three years before applying. Qualifying employment with different sponsors can count; it does not necessarily have to be two years with one employer. Your nominating employer must be your most recent temporary visa sponsor. Competent English and an age below 45 generally apply, with specified age exemptions and transitional arrangements. Home Affairs can request a skills assessment.

Labour Agreement stream

This pathway is available where the employer has a labour agreement that provides for permanent nomination. The agreement determines the relevant occupations, skills, experience, English requirements and any concessions. You normally need to be under 45 unless the agreement provides otherwise. If applying in Australia, you must hold a substantive 457 or 482 visa issued under a labour agreement. A temporary visa granted under a labour agreement does not itself establish eligibility for permanent residence; the permanent pathway and its conditions must be checked against the agreement. Our immigration lawyers assess the stream, any exemptions and the evidence needed before preparing your employer nomination and visa application.