Australia remains one of the top global destinations for engineers seeking skilled migration, thanks to its strong demand for technical talent, competitive salaries, high quality of life, and clear immigration pathways. Whether you are a civil, mechanical, electrical, software, petroleum, or mining engineer, Australia offers multiple visa routes that can lead to permanent residency.
This guide explains the best migration pathways for engineers and provides step-by-step instructions on how to apply — with helpful contextual links throughout.
Why Australia Needs Engineers
Australia’s engineering workforce continues to face shortages due to:
- Infrastructure expansion
- Renewable energy projects
- Mining and resources development
- Skilled labour gaps in regional areas
- Growing tech and digital sectors
The Australian Government lists most engineering occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), making engineers highly eligible for migration programs.
Check the current skilled occupation lists at:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list
Best Migration Pathways for Engineers
1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – Points-Tested
This is one of the most sought-after visas for engineers because it:
- Grants permanent residency
- Does not require employer sponsorship
- Allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia
To qualify, your engineering occupation must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Details: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-independent-189
Key Requirements
- Positive Skills Assessment from Engineers Australia
- Points score of 65+ (higher points improve chances)
- Age under 45
- Competent English test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
- Good health and character
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – State Sponsorship
If your occupation is in demand in specific states, the 190 visa may be a strong option.
- Offers permanent residency
- Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory
- Reduces competition compared to the 189 visa
State nomination information:
https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au
https://migration.sa.gov.au
https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-immigration
3. Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) – Regional Sponsorship
For engineers willing to live in regional areas:
- Provisional visa (5 years)
- Can later convert to permanent residency (Subclass 191)
- Lower points thresholds in some regions
- More occupations available
Regional development authorities often list priority engineering roles.
Example: https://www.rda.gov.au
4. Employer-Sponsored Visas (482, 186, 494)
If you secure a job offer from an Australian employer, these pathways are strong options.
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
Allows employers to sponsor skilled engineers.
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/employing-and-sponsoring-someone/sponsor-steps/temporary-skill-shortage
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
Leads to permanent residency after employer nomination.
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/employer-nomination-scheme-186
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)
For regional employers needing engineering talent.
This route is ideal if you have strong industry experience or receive a job offer from a regional company.
5. Global Talent Visa Program (Subclass 858) – For High-Achieving Engineers
If you have exceptional achievements, high income, or global recognition in areas such as:
- Engineering innovation
- Renewable energy
- AI and machine learning
- Infrastructure development
- Space and advanced manufacturing
You may qualify for the Global Talent Visa, offering fast-track permanent residency.
Details: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/global-talent-visa-program
This is a highly selective pathway.
6. Graduate Visa Pathway (For Engineers Studying in Australia)
If you studied engineering in Australia, you may qualify for the 485 Graduate Visa, which provides post-study work rights.
Details: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485
This visa helps you gain work experience and later apply for permanent visas.
Skills Assessment – A Mandatory Step for Engineers
Engineers Australia (EA) Assessment
Most engineering occupations require a positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia, the national authority evaluating your education and experience.
https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/visa-skills-assessment
Assessment Pathways
- Accord Accredited Qualifications (Washington, Sydney, Dublin)
- Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) for non-accredited degrees
- Australian Qualifications
Documents Required
- Engineering degree certificate
- Transcripts
- Employment reference letters
- English test results
- CDR components (if required)
A positive EA assessment is essential for skilled migration visa eligibility.
English Language Requirements
Acceptable exams include:
- IELTS (General or Academic)
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- OET
Minimum score usually required: Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band).
More details: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/english-requirements
The Australian Points Test for Engineers
Points categories include:
- Age (maximum 30 points)
- English proficiency (up to 20 points)
- Skilled work experience (up to 20 points)
- Education (up to 20 points)
- Australian study (extra points)
- State nomination (5–15 points)
- Partner skills (up to 10 points)
Check your estimated score using the points calculator:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/tools/points-calculator
Higher points improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Step-by-Step Application Process for Engineers
Step 1: Check Your Occupation on the Skilled List
Confirm your engineering field is listed under MLTSSL or STSOL.
Step 2: Complete Skills Assessment (Engineers Australia)
Gather documentation and submit your application via EA’s online portal.
Step 3: Sit an English Test
Take IELTS, PTE or other accepted tests and aim for maximum points.
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Use the SkillSelect system:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect
Step 5: Apply for State Nomination (if applicable)
Choose 190 or 491 if your state lists your occupation.
Step 6: Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
You may wait weeks to months depending on your points score.
Step 7: Apply for Visa
Submit documents, medicals, biometrics, and pay the visa fee.
Step 8: Visa Approval and Move to Australia
Once approved, you receive permanent or provisional residency.
Tips to Improve Your Chances as an Engineer
- Aim for IELTS 8 or PTE 79+ for maximum English points.
- Gather strong evidence for employment history (payslips, contracts).
- Consider regional visas to speed up invitations.
- Gain professional certifications in your engineering field.
- Improve your points through partner skills or professional year programs.
Final Thoughts
Australia offers some of the most accessible and rewarding migration pathways for engineers worldwide. With multiple visa options — including independent, state-sponsored, employer-sponsored, and talent-based programs — engineers can find a route that matches their experience and long-term goals.
By securing a positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia, meeting the points requirements, and following the correct application steps, you can successfully migrate and build your engineering career in a country full of growth opportunities.
