_edited.png)
482 vs 186 vs 494 Visa Comparison 2026: Employer-Sponsored Pathways Explained
Australia's three main employer-sponsored skilled visa pathways serve different purposes. The subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa is temporary, subclass 186 is permanent, and subclass 494 is a five-year regional provisional visa. The correct pathway depends on the role, sponsor, location, occupation, salary, worker history and long-term strategy.
Subclass 482: temporary Skills in Demand
Home Affairs describes the 482 as generally lasting one to four years. Applicants need the skills for the nominated occupation and at least 12 months of relevant work experience. Core Skills, Specialist Skills and Labour Agreement settings can apply. Read our subclass 482 guide for details.
Subclass 186: permanent employer nomination
Subclass 186 provides permanent residence. The Temporary Residence Transition stream can be available to eligible 457 or 482 holders with the required sponsored employment history, while Direct Entry and Labour Agreement pathways use different criteria. Read our subclass 186 guide.
Subclass 494: regional employer sponsorship
Subclass 494 is a five-year provisional visa for eligible regional positions. The Employer Sponsored stream generally involves a relevant occupation, skills assessment unless exempt, three years of relevant experience, age and English criteria. Read our subclass 494 guide.
Quick comparison
482: temporary employer sponsorship, generally 1–4 years.
186: permanent residence, no general regional location restriction.
494: 5-year provisional regional employer-sponsored visa with a permanent residence pathway for eligible holders.
Salary settings matter
From 1 July 2026, the Core Skills Income Threshold and Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold are AUD 79,423, while the Specialist Skills Income Threshold is AUD 146,576. Stream-specific and market salary requirements still need separate assessment.
Primary source: Home Affairs sponsored-skilled visa comparison. See also the Australian Visa Subclass Database.
