Operating Theatre Technician — Subclass 491 Pathway
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa · 5 years provisional → PR pathway via Subclass 191
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- State nomination or eligible family sponsor
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSLSTSOLROLCSOL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Operating Theatre Technician for migration purposes is handled by: VETASSESS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Operating Theatre Technician × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Operating Theatre Technician (ANZSCO 311214) qualifies for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional visa as it appears on the Regional Occupation List (ROL). This points-tested, state-sponsored visa connects skilled operating theatre support professionals with healthcare facilities in regional Australia experiencing workforce shortages. Applicants must register an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and receive a nomination from an eligible state or territory government. State nomination contributes 15 points. A positive skills assessment confirming qualifications and hands-on competence in operating theatre support, sterile services, and surgical assistance is required from an appropriate healthcare assessing body. Applicants must meet the minimum 65 points threshold, though practical invitation scores tend to be higher. English language requirements, age limits, and health and character obligations all apply. Visa holders must reside and work in their nominated regional area for at least three years to become eligible for the Subclass 191 permanent residency pathway. 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 491. 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
- State/territory nomination OR eligible regional family sponsor
- Live, work, and study only in a designated regional area
- Health and character requirements
State nominations for Operating Theatre Technician
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.