Bridging Visa Work Can Count Towards 186 TRT

If you’re planning to apply for a subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (TRT stream) visa, there’s a welcome update from the Department of Home Affairs that may work in your favour—especially if you’re currently holding a Bridging Visa (BV).

The Department has confirmed that work undertaken while on a BV can be counted towards the 186.227 work experience requirement, provided that the job aligns with the occupation nominated in a granted 457 or 482 visa.

Two common situations where bridging visa work can count include:

1. When you are holding a BV while awaiting the outcome of a new 457 or 482 visa, and the nominated occupation is the same as before.

2. When you are on a BV linked to a 186 TRT application—even if the application is later withdrawn.

When Bridging Visa Work Can Count

This clarification provides certainty for many applicants who have continued working in their nominated occupation while waiting on visa outcomes. It eliminates the concern that this time might not be counted and encourages continuity in employment while onshore.

Changing Occupations May Pause Work Time

However, the Department has also emphasised a key limitation:
If you change your occupation and lodge a new 482 visa application, the work you do on a BV while waiting for the new visa will not count towards the 186 TRT requirement for that new occupation.

In other words, your work experience effectively pauses until the new 482 visa is granted.

If you’re considering a change in occupation, weigh the impact on your migration timeline carefully—especially if you’re aiming for the TRT stream.

We recommend gathering documentation now and confirming that your nominated occupation and visa history align, so you can submit your 186 application at the right time.

If you have any questions or would like professional assistance, please feel free to contact us at Riverwood Migration (Email: [email protected]). We are committed to providing transparent, expert migration services to help you achieve your dream of moving to Australia.