Web Developer — 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 Web Developer for migration purposes is handled by: ACS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Web Developer × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Web Developers (ANZSCO 261212) are eligible for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa. Web development is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), reflecting consistent demand across Australia's rapidly expanding technology economy. The 186 visa provides a direct permanent residence pathway through employer nomination. The Direct Entry stream is available to experienced web developers without requiring a prior temporary skilled visa. Sponsoring employers must hold nomination approval and complete labour market testing to confirm the role cannot be filled domestically. A range of commercial, government, and not-for-profit organisations use this pathway. The Australian Computer Society (ACS) conducts the mandatory skills assessment, evaluating web development qualifications and experience across front-end, back-end, and full-stack roles. English language proficiency must be demonstrated. Health and character checks apply. 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 Web Developer
- 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.
- 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 Web Developer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.