Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson — 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 Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson for migration purposes is handled by: EA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson (ANZSCO 312511) is eligible for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa. Appearing on the Regional Occupation List (ROL), the occupation is particularly targeted for Subclass 494 sponsorship to address regional skill shortages. Mechanical Engineering Draftspersons produce detailed engineering drawings and specifications for mechanical components, machinery, and manufacturing processes. The visa is not points-tested. An approved sponsor must nominate the position and demonstrate genuine efforts to recruit locally before engaging an overseas worker. Skills assessment by Engineers Australia (EA) is required, covering qualifications and work experience against Australian standards. English proficiency through an approved test and health and character checks are also mandatory. Processing generally takes three to nine months once a valid nomination and application are lodged, depending on document completeness and caseload. The Subclass 494 application fee is approximately AUD 4,115. After three years of living and working in a designated regional area and earning above the income threshold, Subclass 494 holders may apply for the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa to obtain permanent residence. 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 Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson
- 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 Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.