Construction Estimator — 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 Construction Estimator 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.
Construction Estimator × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Construction Estimator (ANZSCO 312114) qualifies for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa through the Regional Occupation List (ROL), enabling construction companies, quantity surveying firms, and project management businesses to permanently sponsor skilled estimators when local candidates are unavailable. The Subclass 186 is not points-tested. An approved employer must sponsor the applicant and demonstrate through labour market testing that the role cannot be filled locally. A skills assessment from an appropriate construction or quantity surveying authority, such as the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) or VETASSESS, is required to confirm estimating qualifications and cost planning experience. Applicants must meet English language requirements and satisfy health and character conditions. Salary must match Australian market rates. On grant, permanent residency is conferred. Construction estimators are vital to cost-efficient project delivery, making this occupation sought after in both regional and metropolitan markets. 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 Construction Estimator
- 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 Construction Estimator
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.