Boarding Kennel or Cattery Operator — 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 Boarding Kennel or Cattery Operator 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.
Boarding Kennel or Cattery Operator × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Boarding Kennel or Cattery Operator (ANZSCO 149911) qualifies for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa as it appears on the Regional Occupation List (ROL). This pathway enables Australian pet care businesses to sponsor skilled operators for permanent residency. The Subclass 186 is not points-tested. Applicants must be nominated by an approved employer sponsor who demonstrates genuine business need for the role and offers a salary consistent with current market rates. The employer must also complete labour market testing prior to nomination. Skills assessments for this occupation are typically conducted by a relevant veterinary or animal care industry authority. Applicants must demonstrate substantial experience operating a boarding kennel or cattery, including animal welfare management, facility maintenance, client management, staff supervision, and compliance with state animal welfare legislation. Applicants must meet English language requirements, pass health and character checks, and be under the applicable age threshold. The Subclass 186 grants permanent residency directly upon approval. 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