Software Engineer — 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 Software Engineer 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.
Software Engineer × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Software Engineers (ANZSCO 261313) are eligible for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa. Software engineering is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), reflecting Australia's strong and growing demand for qualified engineers across technology, defence, healthcare IT, and financial services sectors. This makes the occupation well suited for the permanent employer-sponsored pathway. The 186 visa grants permanent residence through employer nomination. The Direct Entry stream is suitable for experienced software engineers seeking to transition directly to permanent residency without needing a prior temporary visa. Labour market testing must be completed and genuine business need demonstrated. The Australian Computer Society (ACS) conducts the mandatory skills assessment. Qualifications in software engineering and professional experience across the software development lifecycle are evaluated. English language proficiency must meet required standards. Health and character checks apply. Nomination and visa fees are payable. 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 Software Engineer
- 189Details →Skilled Independent visa
Permanent points-tested visa for workers not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state.
- 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 Software Engineer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.