Migration FAQs

Practical answers about employer sponsorship, skills assessments and WA skilled migration.

What is the difference between a 482 and a 186 visa?

The Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) is a temporary employer-sponsored visa. The Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) is a permanent visa.

The right pathway depends on the employer, position and applicant’s circumstances.

Can I move from a 482 visa to permanent residency?

A 482 visa may provide a pathway to a 186 visa through the Temporary Residence Transition stream, provided you meet the requirements and an eligible employer nominates you.

Permanent residency is not automatic. Planning ahead helps identify the relevant employment, age, English and other requirements. 186 Temporary Residence Transition.

Do I need a skills assessment for a 482 visa?

Not every applicant does. Mandatory assessment requirements depend on factors including your nominated occupation, passport country and any applicable exemption.

Having trade qualifications or experience does not, by itself, confirm whether an assessment is required. Check the requirements for your particular application before lodging. Mandatory 482 skills assessment rules.

Do I need a skills assessment for a 186 visa?

For Direct Entry, a suitable skills assessment is required unless an exemption applies.

For Temporary Residence Transition, an assessment is generally not required when applying, although Home Affairs can request one. The requirements differ between streams, so an assessment needed for one pathway may not be needed for another. Home Affairs skills assessment guidance.

Does a skills assessment let me work in a licensed trade?

A migration skills assessment and an occupational licence serve different purposes. Passing an assessment does not automatically give you permission to carry out licensed work.

For trades such as electrical work and plumbing, check the relevant WA licensing requirements as well as the visa requirements. Trades Recognition Australia guidance.

What is the Construction Visa Subsidy Program?

The Construction Visa Subsidy Program (CVSP) provides financial support for eligible WA construction employers and eligible skilled migrants under its respective streams.

For eligible employers, support can be up to $10,000, subject to program conditions and payment milestones. It is not an automatic payment for every sponsored worker. Official employer subsidy information.

Do I need a skills assessment for a 190 visa?

Yes—a suitable skills assessment for your nominated occupation is required. You must hold it by the time you are invited to apply for the visa.

You also need to meet the relevant visa and State nomination requirements. A positive assessment alone does not guarantee nomination or a visa invitation.

Will submitting an EOI guarantee a WA 190 invitation?

No. An Expression of Interest (EOI) records your interest and eligibility claims; it is not a visa application or a guaranteed place.

Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. Keep your EOI accurate and check the current WA criteria. An invitation to apply for WA nomination is also a separate step from the invitation to apply for the visa.

How can NUA Migration help?

NUA Migration provides practical advice to skilled migrants and Australian employers, with particular experience in construction and the trades.

We can review your circumstances, explain relevant pathways and identify what you need to prepare.

Contact NUA Migration to discuss your situation.

Amanda O’Shaughnessy
Registered Migration Agent | MARN 2619599

General information only. Requirements and program availability can change; advice should be tailored to your circumstances.