Biomedical 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 Biomedical 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.
Biomedical Engineer × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Biomedical Engineers (ANZSCO 233913) qualify for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, enabling permanent residence without employer sponsorship or state nomination. This occupation is listed on the MLTSSL, supporting eligibility for the independent points-tested skilled migration stream. Applicants must lodge an EOI through SkillSelect and receive an invitation based on their points score. Points reflect age, English proficiency, qualifications, and work experience. The minimum threshold is 65 points, with competitive draw rounds sometimes requiring higher scores. A positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia is mandatory before submitting an EOI. Biomedical Engineers typically proceed through the CDR pathway, documenting engineering competencies in medical device development, clinical systems, biomechanics, or health technology management. Competent English is the minimum language requirement. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,640 for primary applicants. Processing takes six to twelve months from invitation. 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 Biomedical 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 Biomedical Engineer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.