Knowledge topic
Subclass 186 vs 491: Two Common PR Pathways Compared
If your goal is PR (Australian permanent residence) and you have a skilled occupation, two of the common pathways are: (1) employer sponsorship — the subclass 186, and (2) the regional skilled route — the subclass 491 → 191. They differ greatly in how they work and suit different people.
Overview of the Two Pathways
Subclass 186 (ENS — Employer Nomination Scheme):
- Requires an employer sponsor
- A direct PR visa (no need to pass through a temporary visa)
- Does not depend on EOI points or an invitation
- Requires a relationship with a sponsoring employer
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional):
- No employer required (but requires state nomination or a relative in a regional area)
- A temporary visa (five years) → then apply for the subclass 191 (PR)
- You must live and work in a regional area while holding the 491
- Uses the points test and an EOI
Comparing Entry Requirements
| Factor | Subclass 186 (TRT) | Subclass 491 |
|---|---|---|
| Employer required | Yes — mandatory | Not mandatory |
| Experience requirement | 2 years with employer | 3 years or by occupation |
| Skills assessment | Not required (TRT) | Required |
| Points test | No | Yes — need ≥65 points |
| Age limit | 45 years old at lodgement | 45 years old at EOI |
| English | Competent (TRT usually) | Competent minimum |
Comparing the Pathway and Time to PR
Subclass 186 TRT:
- Work two years with the employer (usually while holding a 482)
- The employer lodges the 186 nomination
- The subclass 186 PR is granted directly
- Processing time: varies by stage and by application — check the Home Affairs Global visa processing times tool
- Total: usually 2–4 years from when you start working with the employer
Subclass 491 → 191:
- EOI → receive an invitation → lodge the 491
- Hold the 491, live and work in a regional area for ≥3 years
- Meet the income requirement → lodge the 191
- Total: usually 5–7 years from when you lodge the EOI
Advantages and Disadvantages
Subclass 186 — Advantages
- Direct PR — no need to pass through an intermediate temporary visa
- Not tied to living in a regional area
- Does not depend on a points score or a government invitation
- Suits someone working stably with an employer willing to sponsor
Subclass 186 — Disadvantages
- Entirely dependent on the employer — if the company will not sponsor, there is no pathway
- The employer can change its mind or close
- Must meet the market salary rate (often high)
Subclass 491 — Advantages
- No employer sponsor required — more independent
- Suits occupations on the 491 list where a 186 sponsor is hard to find
- Points can be added through experience in a regional area
Subclass 491 — Disadvantages
- Must live in a regional area for ≥3 years — fewer location choices
- Depends on state nomination (which has quotas and often opens and closes unpredictably)
- An additional three years to move from 491 → 191 PR
Who Suits Which Pathway
Choose the 186 if:
- You are on a 482 with an employer willing to sponsor a 186
- You want PR as quickly as possible and do not want to be tied to a regional area
- Your occupation is on the CSOL and you have a suitable employer
Choose the 491 if:
- You do not have an employer sponsor for a 482/186
- Your occupation is on the 491 list and you are willing to live in a regional area
- You are overseas and want to start a pathway without an offer in advance