Work in Healthcare in Australia: Visa Comparison Guide
Australia offers multiple visa options for international nurses seeking employment. The three most common pathways are the Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa), Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme Visa), and Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa). Each has different requirements, benefits, and pathways to permanent residency.
Visa Comparison Guide
Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa - TSS)
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Residency: Temporary (up to 4 years)
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Pathway to PR: Possible through the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream after 2 years
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Work Experience: Varies by stream; typically lower for Core Skills stream entry
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Skills Assessment: Not always required (depends on occupation and stream)
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Employer Sponsorship: Required; employer must be an approved sponsor
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Regional Requirement: No
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Flexibility: Limited to the sponsoring employer
Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme - ENS)
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Residency: Permanent
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Pathway to PR: Direct pathway via Direct Entry or through TRT after 2 years on a 482 visa
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Work Experience: Generally, at least 3 years for Direct Entry; 2 years on a 482 for TRT stream
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Skills Assessment: Required for Direct Entry stream
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Employer Sponsorship: Required; employer must nominate you
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Regional Requirement: No
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Flexibility: Greater flexibility once permanent residency is granted
Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa)
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Residency: Temporary (up to 5 years); must live and work in a designated regional area
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Pathway to PR: Available after meeting regional work and residency requirements
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Work Experience: Similar to 482 requirements but subject to regional criteria
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Skills Assessment: May be required depending on occupation and region
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Employer Sponsorship: Required; employer must be based in a designated regional area
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Regional Requirement: Yes; must live and work in a designated regional area
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Flexibility: Tied to both employer and regional location until PR criteria are met
Which Visa Should You Choose as a Nurse?
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Choose the Subclass 482 Visa if you’re looking for a quick entry into Australia and are happy with an employer-sponsored temporary visa. This is a great option if you need to gain work experience in Australia before applying for permanent residency.
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Choose the Subclass 186 Visa if you have at least 3 years of nursing experience and want a direct pathway to permanent residency. If you’ve already been working on a 482 visa for two years with the same employer, you may be eligible for the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of this visa.
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Choose the Subclass 494 Visa if you are open to working in a designated regional area of Australia and want a strong pathway to permanent residency after meeting work and residency requirements.