Software and Applications Programmers nec — 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 and Applications Programmers nec 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 and Applications Programmers nec × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Software and Applications Programmers necs (ANZSCO 261399) may apply for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, as this occupation appears on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The 189 visa is a points-tested permanent pathway that does not require employer sponsorship or state nomination, giving the holder freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia. Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply based on a competitive points score. The points test rewards age, English language proficiency, skilled employment history, educational qualifications, and other factors. Strong competition among ICT professionals means a high points score is important for invitation success. A positive skills assessment from the Australian Computer Society (ACS) is required before submitting an EOI. ACS assesses ICT qualifications and work experience against Australian professional standards. English language test results, health examinations, and character clearances must all be satisfied. Application fees are payable to the Department of Home Affairs. 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 and Applications Programmers nec
- 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 and Applications Programmers nec
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.