The ENS 186 visa, or Employer Nomination Scheme, provides a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers who an Australian employer has nominated. It is offered through three distinct pathways: Direct Entry, Temporary Residence Transition, and the Labour Agreement stream.
No matter which stream you’re applying through, your experience plays a major role. The Department of Home Affairs expects applicants to show that they’ve worked in a closely related role, at the required skill level, for a certain period. This is where the term “relevant” becomes crucial.
What Exactly Is “Relevant Experience”?
Think of it this way: it’s not just about having a job with a similar title; it’s about doing the actual tasks expected for your nominated occupation. The government uses the ANZSCO job classification system to define roles. If your previous work doesn’t match those duties fairly closely, your application might be on shaky ground.
For example, say your nominated role is “Marketing Specialist.” If you’ve worked as a “social media assistant” but didn’t handle broader marketing tasks, it may not count. It’s all about the substance of what you did, not just the job title on your contract.
How Much Experience Is Required?
Generally, applicants for the ENS 186 visa need at least three years of full-time, post-qualification work experience in their nominated occupation or something very close to it, particularly for the Direct Entry stream.
If your experience has been part-time, it can still count, but it will be calculated on a pro-rata basis. What doesn’t usually count are internships, unpaid work, or positions held while you were studying, unless they were highly relevant and well-documented.
How to Prove It
You’ll need more than just your word to back up your experience. Here’s what Home Affairs typically looks for:
- Reference letters detailing your duties and length of employment
- Employment contracts and job descriptions
- Payslips, tax records, and superannuation details
Getting all of this together can feel overwhelming. That is why having an experienced legal team by your side can be a game-changer.
Why Legal Guidance is Essential
While it’s tempting to navigate the process alone, immigration law is a complex and nuanced field. It appears that you may not meet Home Affairs’ strict criteria. A skilled migration lawyer will analyse your work history, cross-reference it with the ANZSCO codes, and help craft a compelling case.
We’ve successfully assisted clients across a broad range of industries with ENS 186 visa applications, especially those stuck in complex or high-risk scenarios. Our legal team ensures every aspect of your application meets regulatory standards, giving you peace of mind and a competitive edge.
Let’s Get It Right From the Start
The ENS 186 visa is a fantastic opportunity to build a future in Australia—but only if every part of your application, including your work experience, is rock-solid.
If you’re not sure whether your background ticks all the boxes, don’t guess. Get in touch with a team that knows the system inside and out.
Call us today at +61 39614 0218 or visit AR LAW SERVICES: Master Migration & Litigation Lawyers to book a confidential consultation. Let us help you secure your future in Australia by making sure your ENS 186 visa application stands up to scrutiny.