Journalists and Other Writers nec — 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 Journalists and Other Writers nec 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.
Journalists and Other Writers nec × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Journalists and Other Writers not elsewhere classified (ANZSCO 212499) are listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and Combined Skilled Occupation List (CSOL), making this occupation eligible for the permanent Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa. The Subclass 186 operates through the Direct Entry, Temporary Residence Transition, and Labour Agreement streams. In the Direct Entry stream, applicants must be under 45, hold Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent), and demonstrate at least three years of full-time experience in a writing or journalism role that falls within the ANZSCO 212499 classification. Skills assessment by VETASSESS is required, evaluating qualifications and professional portfolio against Australian media and communications standards. The sponsoring employer must be approved by the Department of Home Affairs and demonstrate no suitable Australian worker is available. The indicative fee is from AUD 4,770, with processing typically 6 to 15 months. Permanent residency is granted on visa approval. 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 Journalists and Other Writers nec
- 190Details →Skilled Nominated visa
Permanent visa for workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- 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 Journalists and Other Writers nec
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.