Engineering Technologist — 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 Engineering Technologist 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.
Engineering Technologist × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Engineering Technologists (ANZSCO 233914) qualify for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, a permanent residence pathway requiring no employer sponsorship or state nomination. The occupation is listed on the MLTSSL, confirming eligibility for the independent skilled migration stream. Applicants must lodge an EOI through SkillSelect and receive an invitation based on their points score. Points are earned across age, English proficiency, qualifications, and work experience, with the minimum threshold at 65 points. A positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia is mandatory before submitting an EOI. Engineering Technologists submit a CDR demonstrating competency in applied technical areas such as drafting, testing, calibration, technical project support, or site supervision. Competent English is required at minimum. 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 Engineering Technologist
- 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 Engineering Technologist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.