Regulatory Affairs Manager — Subclass 186 Pathway
Employer Nomination Scheme visa · Permanent
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 186 — Employer Nomination Scheme visa
- Points test
- Not points-tested
- Sponsor
- Employer sponsor required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSLSTSOLROLCSOL
- Base fee
- from $4,770 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~6-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Regulatory Affairs Manager for migration purposes is handled by: VETASSESS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Regulatory Affairs Manager × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Regulatory Affairs Manager (ANZSCO 139917) qualifies for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa as it appears on the Regional Occupation List (ROL). This pathway enables Australian employers to sponsor skilled regulatory professionals for permanent residency. The Subclass 186 visa is not points-tested. Instead, applicants must be nominated by an approved employer who can demonstrate the genuine need for the role and that the position salary meets market rate requirements. The employer must hold or obtain approved standard business sponsorship with the Department of Home Affairs. Skills assessments for Regulatory Affairs Managers are typically conducted by the relevant professional body or industry authority, depending on the sector such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, or food and beverage. Applicants must demonstrate substantial expertise in regulatory compliance, submissions management, and government liaison. Applicants must provide evidence of relevant qualifications and work experience, demonstrate English language proficiency, and satisfy health and character requirements. Labour market testing evidence is required to confirm genuine recruitment attempts were made before nominating a skilled migrant. The Subclass 186 grants permanent residency directly. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,770 for the primary applicant. Processing times typically range from six to eighteen months. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.
Content last generated: 2026-06-26
Key requirements
High-level criteria for Subclass 186. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at application (with limited exemptions)
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Nominated by an approved Australian employer
- Positive skills assessment in the nominated occupation (Direct Entry stream)
- At least three years of relevant work experience (Direct Entry stream)
- Health and character requirements