anzsco.com.au
ANZSCO 232412Subclass 186Permanent

Illustrator — Subclass 186 Pathway

Employer Nomination Scheme visa · Permanent

At a glance

Visa
Subclass 186Employer 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 Illustrator 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.

Illustrator × Subclass 186 — pathway overview

Illustrators (ANZSCO 232412) may qualify for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa, a permanent residence visa that requires sponsorship from an approved Australian employer. Eligibility depends on the occupation appearing on the relevant skilled occupation list applicable to the visa stream being used. The Subclass 186 Direct Entry stream is available to illustrators who have not previously held a qualifying temporary visa, while the Temporary Residence Transition stream requires at least two years of employment with the nominating employer on a Subclass 482 visa. Skills assessment for Illustrators is generally conducted through the Design Institute of Australia or another relevant creative industry body. This visa is not points-tested. The employer nominates the position and the applicant must meet age, skills, and English language requirements. The upper age limit for the Direct Entry stream is generally 45 years. Processing times are typically 6 to 18 months. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,640 for the primary applicant. Labour market testing must be completed by the employer unless an exemption applies. Illustrators specialising in children's publishing, animation, scientific illustration, or digital media may attract sponsorship from publishers, studios, or agencies. 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 Illustrator

State nominations for Illustrator

States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.

Visa pathway data last reviewed by editorial team: