Visa 186 TRT Stream: From 482 to Permanent Residence
The Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream is the most common route for Subclass 482 holders to move up to permanent residence. The idea is simple: you have worked long enough for a sponsoring employer, and that employer nominates you for PR. But “long enough” and “the right way” come with details that matter, so this article goes through each requirement.
The work-period requirement
The core requirement of TRT is the period of work for the nominating employer. The current reference point is 2 years working in the nominated position, on a Subclass 482 (or the earlier TSS). This figure used to be three years and was shortened in a recent reform — if you are reading older information, check it against the current benchmark.
The point that often catches people out: the period is counted by actual work in the right occupation with the right nominating employer, not just the time you held the visa. Changing employer, taking a long break, or working in the wrong position can all affect how it is counted.
Age and general requirements
On age, the reference point is 45 years old at the time of lodging, with some groups exempt. There are also English, health and police-check requirements, as with any permanent residence application. TRT is usually lighter than Direct Entry on demonstrating your skills, because the time worked with the employer is itself a form of evidence.
Cost
The main application fee for the Subclass 186 currently sits at 6,140 AUD for the primary applicant, not including dependant fees and any health examination or translation costs. Part of the cost on the business side (such as the nomination obligations) belongs to the sponsoring employer and is not passed on to the worker.
Points to review before lodging
Three questions worth checking first: whether you have enough time worked in the right occupation, whether your employer is willing and eligible to nominate, and whether there are any gaps in your work history. These are exactly the points a registered migration agent (MARA) will examine closely — and the reason to seek advice rather than conclude on your own when an application has unclear points.