Microbiologist — 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 Microbiologist for migration purposes is handled by: VETASSESS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — the one listed for the nominated ANZSCO code on this site.
Microbiologist × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Microbiologists (ANZSCO 234517) qualify for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, a points-tested permanent residence pathway requiring no employer sponsorship or state nomination. This occupation is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), confirming independent stream eligibility. Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest via SkillSelect and receive an invitation based on their points score. The minimum threshold is 65 points, though competitive draw scores typically exceed this. A skills assessment from the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology (AIAST) is required before lodging an EOI, verifying qualifications and experience against Australian standards for Microbiologists, who study microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi; demand from healthcare, food safety, pharmaceutical, and environmental sectors. Competent English applies, equivalent to IELTS 6.0. Applicants must be under 45 at time of invitation. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,640. 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 Microbiologist
- 190Details →Skilled Nominated visa
Permanent visa for workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- 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.
State nominations for Microbiologist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.