Surveying or Spatial Science Technician — Subclass 494 Pathway
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa · 5 years provisional → PR pathway via Subclass 191
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 494 — Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional 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
- ~9-18 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 494 — pathway overview
Surveying or Spatial Science Technician (ANZSCO 312116) is eligible for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa, enabling regional surveying firms, infrastructure developers, spatial data agencies, and mining companies to sponsor skilled spatial science technicians for work in designated regional areas. The Subclass 494 is employer-sponsored and not points-tested. Applicants must obtain a genuine offer from an approved regional employer and a positive skills assessment from the Surveying and Spatial Sciences Institute (SSSI) or Engineers Australia, confirming surveying or GIS qualifications and relevant technical field or data experience. Health, character, and English language requirements must all be satisfied before lodging the visa application. Visa holders must remain employed in the sponsoring regional area for the full duration of the visa. After three years of compliant regional employment, holders may apply for the Subclass 191 permanent residency pathway. Government application fees start at approximately $4,770 plus the Skilling Australians Fund levy. 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 494. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at application
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment in the nominated occupation
- Three years of relevant work experience in the nominated occupation
- Nominated by an approved regional employer in a designated regional area
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Surveying or Spatial Science Technician
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 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.
State nominations for Surveying or Spatial Science Technician
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.