Short answer: Australia’s 482 visa is an employer-sponsored temporary work visa; from July 2026 the Core Skills income threshold is about AUD 79,000. After working the required period and meeting conditions, you can apply for the 186 Employer Nomination permanent visa.
482 vs 186
| 482 Temporary Skill | 186 Employer Nomination | |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Temporary work visa | Permanent residence |
| Employer | Must have a sponsoring employer | Must have a nominating employer |
| Income threshold | Core Skills about AUD 79,000 from July 2026 | Must meet rules at the time |
| English | Depends on stream | Depends on pathway |
| Path to PR | Can lead to 186 | Permanent residence directly |
Typical path to 186
- Obtain a 482 and work for the sponsoring employer.
- Meet the work-period and other conditions (temporary residence transition or direct entry).
- Be nominated by the employer and apply for 186 permanent residence.
Who it suits
- Those who have or can find an Australian employer willing to sponsor
- Occupations on the relevant skilled lists
- Preferring to enter on a work visa first, then move to PR
- Professionals relying on skills and an employer rather than investment
Points to note
- Income thresholds are indexed — confirm the latest figures before applying.
- The employer must meet sponsorship rules and labour-market testing where required.
- 482 has stay and work limits; remain compliant before moving to 186.
- Unlike the National Innovation visa (NIV), 482/186 are built around employer sponsorship.
Try the Programme Finder with your background to see if employer-sponsored routes fit.