Changing Employers While on a 482 Visa to 186 TRT!
- RACC Australia - Education and Migration Services
- Apr 4
- 2 min read
Are you a 482 visa holder aiming for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia through the 186 visa Temporary Residence Transition stream? There’s an important update you need to know — and it could significantly fast-track your PR journey.
What’s Changed?
Previously, if you change employers while holding a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa (now replaced by the 482 Skills in Demand Visa), your work experience didn’t start counting towards the 186 (TRT) visa until your new employer’s nomination was approved. This meant delays and months of uncertainty — even if you were already working full-time in your skilled occupation.
Your PR Countdown Starts Sooner
Under the latest Department of Home Affairs update, your work experience will now count from the date your new employer lodges the nomination — not from the approval date.
This means:
No more wasted months waiting for approval before your experience counts.
When you change employers, the experience under the 482 visa counted towards the 2-year requirement for the 186 TRT (Temporary Residence Transition) stream starts from the nomination lodgement date.
If you’ve recently changed sponsors or are planning to, this update gives you more certainty, a clearer pathway to PR, and ensures less wasted time on your visa.
What This Means for You
Whether you’ve already switched employers or are thinking about making a move, this change is a huge improvement for 482 visa holders planning to transition to PR through the 186 visa.
But remember:This update applies only from the time the new nomination is lodged — not from when you start working informally or before formal paperwork is submitted.
Additionally, it does not apply to your initial 482 visa application — in that case, work experience only begins counting from the nomination approval date.
Need Help Navigating the 482 to 186 Visa Pathway?
Changing employers while on a 482 visa can be tricky — especially if you’re unsure about sponsorship obligations, nomination requirements, or how these updates apply to your specific case.
Our registered migration experts at RACC Migration & Education Services can guide you through:
Changing employers safely on a 482 visa
Understanding the 186 TRT stream requirements
Planning your permanent residency application timeline
Have questions about the 482 to 186 visa transition? Don’t risk delays or missed opportunities. Book your consultation with one of our registered migration agents, we’re here to help you stay on track towards PR in Australia.
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