Mechanical Engineer — 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 Mechanical Engineer for migration purposes is handled by: EA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — the one listed for the nominated ANZSCO code on this site.
Mechanical Engineer × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Mechanical Engineers (ANZSCO 233512) qualify for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, enabling permanent residence without employer sponsorship or state nomination. Mechanical Engineering appears on the MLTSSL, confirming eligibility for this independent points-tested pathway. Applicants must lodge an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply. Points are scored on age, English proficiency, work experience, qualifications, and other recognised factors. The minimum threshold is 65 points, though actual invitation scores have frequently exceeded this due to competition across occupation demand categories. A positive skills assessment through Engineers Australia must be obtained prior to submitting an EOI. The CDR pathway evaluates the applicant's career episodes, summary statement, and continuing professional development against Engineers Australia competency standards. Qualified applicants from Washington Accord-signatory countries may follow simplified assessment routes. Competent English is the minimum requirement with higher proficiency adding valuable points. Visa fees are approximately AUD 4,640 for primary applicants. Processing times typically span six to twelve months from invitation. Mechanical Engineers with strong points scores and assessed qualifications are well-positioned in SkillSelect draw rounds. 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 Mechanical Engineer
- 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 Mechanical Engineer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.