Boat Builder and Repairer — Subclass 189 Pathway
Skilled Independent visa · Permanent
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- No sponsor required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Boat Builder and Repairer for migration purposes is handled by: TRA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — the one listed for the nominated ANZSCO code on this site.
Boat Builder and Repairer × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Boat Builder and Repairer (ANZSCO 399111) is eligible for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa. As an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and Combined Skilled Occupation List (CSOL), it qualifies for this points-tested permanent visa without requiring employer sponsorship or state nomination. Boat Builders and Repairers construct, maintain, and repair watercraft including recreational boats, commercial vessels, and fibreglass craft, working with timber, fibreglass, aluminium, and composites to build and restore hulls and fittings. Applicants must score at least 65 points under the points test and submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect before receiving an invitation to apply. The visa is fully independent — no sponsorship or state backing is needed. Skills assessment by the Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) is required, covering qualifications and relevant work experience. Applicants must also hold at least Competent English and meet health and character requirements. Processing is invitation-based through SkillSelect; waiting times vary by points score and occupation demand. The Subclass 189 application fee is approximately AUD 4,640. The visa grants unrestricted permanent residence allowing the holder to live and work anywhere 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 189. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at invitation
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment in a nominated MLTSSL occupation
- Submit Expression of Interest in SkillSelect and meet pass mark (currently 65, effective competitive minimum 90+)
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Boat Builder and Repairer
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 190Details →Skilled Nominated visa
Permanent visa for workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 485Details →Temporary Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of Australian qualifications.
- 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 Boat Builder and Repairer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.