Software Tester — 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 Tester 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 Tester × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Software Testers (ANZSCO 261314) are eligible for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa, with the occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Software testers play a critical role in quality assurance across the Australian technology sector, and experienced testers are regularly in demand across enterprise, government, and financial services environments. The 186 visa provides permanent residence through employer nomination. The Direct Entry stream is available for qualified software testers. Sponsoring employers must complete labour market testing and hold nomination approval from the Department of Home Affairs. The Australian Computer Society (ACS) conducts the mandatory skills assessment, evaluating qualifications and testing experience including manual and automated testing, test design, and defect management. 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 Software Tester
- 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 Software Tester
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.