Software Tester — Subclass 190 Pathway
Skilled Nominated visa · Permanent
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- State / territory nomination required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSLSTSOLCSOL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-14 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 for migration purposes — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Software Tester × Subclass 190 — pathway overview
Software Testers (ANZSCO 261314) can apply for the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa. The occupation is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), and state and territory governments with active ICT sectors nominate software testers to support their technology industries. State nomination adds five points to the applicant's score. Nomination criteria vary by jurisdiction and typically include minimum years of software testing experience, English language scores, and a commitment to live and work in the nominating state. Applicants should review each state's nomination list and criteria before applying. A positive ACS skills assessment must be obtained before lodging an EOI in SkillSelect. After receiving state nomination and an invitation, the 190 visa is lodged with the Department of Home Affairs. English proficiency, health, and character requirements are all mandatory components. 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 190. 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 occupation on a state list
- State or territory nomination (each state runs its own program)
- Commitment to live and work in the nominating state
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Software Tester
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 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.