anzsco.com.au
ANZSCO 234999Subclass 189Permanent

Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec — Subclass 189 Pathway

Skilled Independent visa · Permanent

At a glance

Visa
Subclass 189Skilled 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 Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec 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.

Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec × Subclass 189 — pathway overview

Natural and Physical Science Professional (Not Elsewhere Classified) (ANZSCO 234999) qualifies for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa through its listing on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The Subclass 189 is a permanent, points-tested pathway that requires no employer, state, or family sponsorship, making it the most independent skilled migration route available. Applicants must lodge an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and await an invitation based on competitive points rounds. A positive skills assessment from relevant professional body depending on specialisation is mandatory, evaluating qualifications and professional scientific work in a natural or physical science discipline not covered by other categories against Australian benchmarks. Key requirements include a minimum 65 points under the points test (competitive invitation rounds typically require scores well above this threshold), being under 45 years of age at the time of invitation, demonstrating competent English (IELTS 6 overall or equivalent), and satisfying health and character requirements. On grant, holders receive permanent Australian residency with no geographic restriction. Application fees start from approximately AUD 4,640 and processing typically takes between eight and fifteen months. 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 Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec

State nominations for Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec

States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.

Visa pathway data last reviewed by editorial team: