Materials Engineer — Subclass 491 Pathway
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa · 5 years provisional → PR pathway via Subclass 191
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- State nomination or eligible family sponsor
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSLSTSOLROLCSOL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Materials Engineer for migration purposes is handled by: EA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Materials Engineer × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Materials Engineers (ANZSCO 233112) may be eligible for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, a points-tested pathway requiring state or territory government nomination or sponsorship by an eligible relative in a designated regional area. This occupation's inclusion on the MLTSSL makes it eligible for this visa. A positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia is required before lodging an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. Regional nomination adds 15 points to the applicant's score, which is often decisive. The Subclass 491 is provisional, valid for five years, with regional living obligations. Materials Engineers may find regional roles in mineral processing plants, mining operations, manufacturing facilities, and materials testing services. After three years of compliant regional residence and meeting income thresholds, holders may apply for the Subclass 191 permanent residence visa. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,240 for the primary applicant. Regional demand for Materials Engineers is strongest in Western Australia, Queensland, and South Australia given the concentration of resource and processing industry activity. Processing times depend on state quota availability and departmental timelines. 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 491. 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 occupation
- State/territory nomination OR eligible regional family sponsor
- Live, work, and study only in a designated regional area
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Materials Engineer
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 189Details →Skilled Independent visa
Permanent points-tested visa for workers not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state.
- 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.
- 494Details →Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
Five-year employer-sponsored provisional visa in regional Australia, with a path to PR.
State nominations for Materials Engineer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.