Agricultural Research Scientist — Subclass 186 Pathway
Employer Nomination Scheme visa · Permanent
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 186 — Employer Nomination Scheme visa
- Points test
- Not points-tested
- Sponsor
- Employer sponsor required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSLSTSOLROLCSOL
- Base fee
- from $4,770 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~6-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Agricultural Research Scientist for migration purposes is handled by: VETASSESS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Agricultural Research Scientist × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Agricultural Research Scientists (ANZSCO 234114) are eligible for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa, providing a permanent residence pathway for employer-sponsored skilled workers in agricultural science research. This occupation is listed on the MLTSSL, enabling access to the Temporary Residence Transition and Direct Entry streams under Subclass 186. AIAST is the designated skill assessing body. Applicants must hold relevant qualifications in agricultural science, agronomy, plant science, animal science, or related research disciplines and demonstrate professional research experience consistent with the Agricultural Research Scientist classification. The sponsoring employer, typically a university, government research agency, or agribusiness research division, must hold approved sponsor status and provide a genuine full-time research role. Labour market testing is required. Salary must meet or exceed the TSMIT. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,640 for primary applicants. Processing times typically range from three to twelve months. Agricultural Research Scientists contributing to crop improvement, food security, climate adaptation, or biosecurity research are highly valued in Australia's agricultural science community. 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 186. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at application (with limited exemptions)
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Nominated by an approved Australian employer
- Positive skills assessment in the nominated occupation (Direct Entry stream)
- At least three years of relevant work experience (Direct Entry stream)
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Agricultural Research Scientist
State nominations for Agricultural Research Scientist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.