Science Technicians nec — 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 Science Technicians nec 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.
Science Technicians nec × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Science Technicians not elsewhere classified (ANZSCO 311499) qualifies for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa through the Regional Occupation List (ROL), providing a flexible pathway for employers to permanently sponsor skilled science technicians whose specialties fall outside more specific ANZSCO classifications. The Subclass 186 is not points-tested. An approved employer must sponsor the applicant and conduct labour market testing to demonstrate local candidates are unavailable. A skills assessment from the appropriate science assessing body for the applicant's specific technical discipline is required. Applicants must meet English language proficiency standards and pass health and character checks. Salary must align with Australian market rates. On grant, permanent residency is conferred. This classification is particularly relevant for specialists in niche scientific fields including environmental science, materials science, and forensic laboratory work. 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 Science Technicians nec
- 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 Science Technicians nec
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.