Surveying or Spatial Science Technician — 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 Surveying or Spatial Science 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.
Surveying or Spatial Science Technician × Subclass 186 — pathway overview
Surveying or Spatial Science Technician (ANZSCO 312116) qualifies for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa through the Regional Occupation List (ROL), allowing surveying firms, spatial data companies, and engineering consultancies to permanently sponsor spatial science technicians. The Subclass 186 is not points-tested. Employer sponsorship is mandatory, and the sponsoring organisation must demonstrate through labour market testing that suitable local candidates are not available. A positive skills assessment is required, typically conducted by the Surveying and Spatial Sciences Institute (SSSI) or Engineers Australia, evaluating surveying or GIS qualifications and practical field or data experience. Applicants must meet English language standards and satisfy health and character requirements. Salary must align with Australian industry rates. On grant, permanent residency is awarded, providing surveying and spatial science technicians with long-term career stability in Australia. 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 Surveying or Spatial Science Technician
- 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 Surveying or Spatial Science Technician
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.