Software Engineer — 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 Software Engineer for migration purposes is handled by: ACS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — the one listed for the nominated ANZSCO code on this site.
Software Engineer × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Software Engineers (ANZSCO 261313) may apply for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa. Software engineering is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making it eligible for this independent points-tested permanent visa. This is one of the most heavily utilised permanent visa pathways for ICT professionals in Australia, offering full freedom to live and work anywhere in the country. An Expression of Interest through SkillSelect is the starting point. Points are earned through age, English proficiency, employment as a software engineer, and qualifications. A positive ACS skills assessment is required before lodging an EOI. Competition for invitations is strong, making high English scores and substantial work experience critical for securing a timely invitation. English proficiency must be demonstrated through an approved language test. Health and character assessments are mandatory. Visa application fees 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 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 Software Engineer
- 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 Software Engineer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.