Project Builder — 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 Project Builder 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.
Project Builder × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Project Builder (ANZSCO 133112) qualifies for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa through the Regional Occupation List (ROL), enabling permanent employer-sponsored migration for skilled professionals in residential and commercial building construction management. The Subclass 186 is not points-tested; eligibility is established through an approved employer nomination. Applicants pursuing the Direct Entry stream must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority. For Project Builders, assessment is typically conducted by the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM) or a relevant building and construction industry body, evaluating qualifications, project management experience, and practical knowledge of construction workflows and building regulations. The Temporary Residence Transition stream is available to Subclass 482 or 457 holders with at least two years of qualifying employment with the sponsoring employer. Key requirements include being under 45 years of age, holding competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent), at least three years of relevant experience managing building projects (Direct Entry), and standard health and character clearances. The employer must hold approved sponsor status and complete labour market testing demonstrating genuine need. Processing for the Subclass 186 typically takes six to fifteen months and fees start from approximately $4,770. 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
Other visa pathways for Project Builder
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 491Details →Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
Five-year provisional visa for workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
- 494Details →Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
Five-year employer-sponsored provisional visa in regional Australia, with a path to PR.
State nominations for Project Builder
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.