Child Care Worker — 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 Child Care Worker 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.
Child Care Worker × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Child Care Worker (ANZSCO 421111) is listed on the Combined Skilled Occupation List (CSOL), confirming eligibility for the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186). This permanent residence visa allows an approved Australian employer to nominate a skilled overseas worker for a genuine position that cannot be filled locally. Child Care Workers provide educational care to infants and children in long day care and family day care. The visa is available through the Direct Entry or Temporary Residence Transition stream. The sponsoring employer must hold standard business sponsorship and demonstrate genuine need. VETASSESS conducts the skills assessment, evaluating qualifications and work experience. English proficiency must meet prescribed standards through an approved test. Health and character checks apply. Applicants must generally be under 45. Processing typically takes six to twelve months. The primary applicant fee is approximately AUD 4,640. 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