Subclass 186 Visa: What “3 Years’ Experience” Really Means It’s Not Always Consecutive!

As I guide employers and skilled workers through the Employer Nomination Scheme every week, paragraph 186.234(2)(b) of Schedule 2 to the Migration Regulations 1994 often catches people out. Here’s the nuance you need to know:

Tip: The clock starts only after you’ve obtained the qualification that lets you perform the role without restriction.

Skill level & task match matter just as much as hours

• The Department looks at the tasks you actually performed, not your job title.
• You must show you worked at the same complexity and responsibility level as the position you’re being nominated for.
• Be ready to prove it with detailed references, position descriptions, PAYG summaries and payslips for the whole period.

Common pitfalls I see in practice

1. “I was full time… mostly.” Dipping to 30 hours/week for several months may blow out your timeline.
2. Mismatched duties. Calling yourself a “Project Manager” while doing mainly admin won’t cut it.
3. Evidence gaps. Overseas experience is fine, if you can back it up with tax returns or bank records.

Why this matters now?

With processing times tightening post-COVID and the new Skills in Demand visa reshaping pathways, getting the experience calculation right the first time can be the difference between an approval and months of costly appeals.

Need clarity on your own timeline?

I’m Saurabh Smar; Lawyer, Registered Migration Agent (MARN 1802044) and Director at Global Vision Migration. If you’re unsure whether your (or your employee’s) work history stacks up, let’s chat before you lodge: