From WIDENWIDEN Migration ExpertsSponsorTalentWiden CPD Keshab Chapagain · MARN 1576536

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186 visa: what it costs the employer (1 July 2026 figures)

Q: 186 visa: what it costs the employer

Short answer: a 186 nomination costs the employer A$540 plus a one-off Skilling Australians Fund levy of A$3,000 (turnover under A$10m) or A$5,000 . The worker pays the visa charge of A$6,140 . No sponsorship application is needed; the employer nominates directly. Two routes Temporary Residence Transition: the worker has held a 482 and worked for you for at least two of the last three years. No skills assessment in most cases. The usual route for a chef, carer or tradesperson you already employ. Direct Entry: no prior 482 needed; a positive skills assessment and at least three years of releva

Short answer: a 186 nomination costs the employer A$540 plus a one-off Skilling Australians Fund levy of A$3,000 (turnover under A$10m) or A$5,000. The worker pays the visa charge of A$6,140. No sponsorship application is needed; the employer nominates directly.

Two routes

Temporary Residence Transition: the worker has held a 482 and worked for you for at least two of the last three years. No skills assessment in most cases. The usual route for a chef, carer or tradesperson you already employ.
Direct Entry: no prior 482 needed; a positive skills assessment and at least three years of relevant experience, with the occupation on the relevant list.

Shared requirements

Full-time position for at least two years.
Salary at or above the market rate and the Core Skills Income Threshold, A$79,423 from 1 July 2026.
The worker under 45 when they apply, with limited exemptions, and competent English.

What it means in practice

An employer who sponsors a 482 and later a 186 pays, across both, roughly A$6,690 in government charges for a two-year 482 followed by permanent residence, for a worker who has already proven themselves for two years. Most employers find the second step the easier decision.

The candidates are already here

SponsorTalent lists candidates in Australia with work rights by occupation, with live counts. A shortlist with names, phone and email is A$99 for five.

Hire by occupation → Request a shortlist →

General information, not migration advice. Government charges are indexed each 1 July; verify current figures at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Related: How much does it cost to sponsor a worker in Australia? · 482 nomination fee and the SAF levy · Labour market testing for a 482 visa.