Mechanical 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 Mechanical 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.
Mechanical Engineer × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Mechanical Engineers (ANZSCO 233512) qualify for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, a points-tested temporary visa requiring state or territory nomination or sponsorship from an eligible relative living in a regional area. Mechanical Engineering is listed on the MLTSSL, confirming suitability for this regional pathway. Applicants lodge an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and must receive a nomination invitation before applying. Holders must live and work in a designated regional area for at least three years. Each state applies its own nomination criteria, which may include occupation shortage assessments and applicant circumstances. A positive skill assessment through Engineers Australia is required before submitting an EOI. State nomination provides an additional ten points. Competent English is the minimum language level, with proficiency improvements adding further points. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,640 for primary applicants. After satisfying the regional obligations, 491 holders may transition to the Subclass 191 permanent residence visa. Mechanical Engineers are in demand in regional manufacturing, mining, and infrastructure projects across Queensland, Western Australia, and regional Victoria. 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 Mechanical 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 Mechanical Engineer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.