Environmental 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 Environmental 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.
Environmental Engineer × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Environmental Engineers (ANZSCO 233915) qualify for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, a permanent residence pathway with no employer sponsorship or state nomination requirement. This 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. The minimum threshold is 65 points, with competitive draw rounds often requiring higher scores. A positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia is mandatory before submitting an EOI. Environmental Engineers typically apply via the CDR pathway, demonstrating competencies in environmental systems analysis, water quality management, waste treatment, and regulatory compliance. 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. Environmental Engineers with backgrounds in mine site rehabilitation, water resources, or contaminated land are particularly competitive in the Australian skilled migration context. 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 Environmental 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 Environmental Engineer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.