Architect — Subclass 189 Pathway
Skilled Independent visa · Permanent
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- No sponsor required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Architect for migration purposes is handled by: AACA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — the one listed for the nominated ANZSCO code on this site.
Architect × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Architect (ANZSCO 232111) qualifies for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa as it appears on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), providing a points-tested pathway to permanent residency without requiring employer or state sponsorship. The Subclass 189 is fully points-tested. Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply, typically requiring a competitive points score based on age, English proficiency, qualifications, and work experience. No sponsorship is required, making this pathway highly competitive. The Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) conducts skills assessments for Architects through the Overseas Qualified Applicants (OQA) pathway or the National Program of Assessment (NPA). Applicants must demonstrate their qualifications and professional experience meet the standards for architectural practice in Australia. Applicants must demonstrate strong English language proficiency, pass health and character requirements, and typically have several years of post-graduate architectural experience. Younger applicants with high language scores typically achieve the most competitive points totals. The Subclass 189 grants permanent residency directly. Government fees are approximately AUD 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 189. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at invitation
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment in a nominated MLTSSL occupation
- Submit Expression of Interest in SkillSelect and meet pass mark (currently 65, effective competitive minimum 90+)
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Architect
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 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.
- 485Details →Temporary Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of Australian qualifications.
- 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 Architect
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.