Building Associate — 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 Building Associate 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.
Building Associate × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Building Associate (ANZSCO 312112) qualifies for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa through the Regional Occupation List (ROL), enabling construction employers, project management firms, and building services companies to permanently sponsor qualified building associates when local recruitment proves unsuccessful. The Subclass 186 is not points-tested. Approved employer sponsorship is mandatory, and the employer must conduct labour market testing to confirm the position cannot be filled locally. A positive skills assessment is required, typically through VETASSESS or an approved construction skills authority, verifying building construction qualifications and technical support experience. Applicants must satisfy English language requirements and meet health and character conditions. Salary must align with Australian market rates for equivalent building associate roles. On grant, permanent residency is conferred. Building Associates contribute to construction project delivery across residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors. 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 Building Associate
State nominations for Building Associate
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.