University Lecturer — 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 University Lecturer 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.
University Lecturer × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
University Lecturer (ANZSCO 242111) is eligible for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, a permanent points-tested pathway that does not require employer sponsorship or state nomination. This occupation appears on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL), confirming that skilled University Lecturers may lodge an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and migrate independently based on their qualifications and points score. Applicants must receive an invitation to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest. The minimum points threshold is 65, with higher scores increasing the likelihood of invitation. Points are awarded for age, English language proficiency, skilled employment experience, educational qualifications, Australian study, and partner skills, among other factors. A positive skills assessment from VETASSESS is required before lodging an Expression of Interest. Applicants must be under 45 years of age, demonstrate at least competent English, and satisfy health and character requirements. The Subclass 189 grants permanent residence and carries no regional living obligation. Application fees start from approximately 4,640 dollars and processing typically takes six to eighteen 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 University Lecturer
- 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 University Lecturer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.