Quality Assurance Manager — 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 Quality Assurance Manager 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.
Quality Assurance Manager × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Quality Assurance Manager (ANZSCO 139916) qualifies for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa as it appears on the Regional Occupation List (ROL), enabling employer-sponsored permanent residency for skilled quality management professionals in Australia. The Subclass 186 is not points-tested. Applicants are nominated by an approved Australian employer who must demonstrate the position cannot be filled by a local worker and that the salary offered meets market rate standards. Employers must hold or obtain standard business sponsorship approval from the Department of Home Affairs. A skills assessment from the relevant authority, typically the Australian Institute of Management (AIM) or relevant industry body, is required for this occupation. The assessment evaluates qualifications and professional experience in quality assurance, including expertise in quality management systems, auditing, and process improvement frameworks such as ISO 9001. Applicants must demonstrate several years of relevant work experience in quality management roles, meet English language requirements, and satisfy health and character checks. Labour market testing is generally required, confirming the employer genuinely attempted to recruit locally. The Subclass 186 grants permanent residency. Government visa fees are approximately AUD 4,770 for the primary applicant, with additional costs for family members. Processing times typically range from six to eighteen months. 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