Engineering in Australia

Australia offers incredible opportunities for engineers looking to build a career and secure permanent residency. If you’re an engineer aiming to make Australia your long-term home, there are several clear pathways to achieving Permanent Residency (PR).

Eligibility Criteria for the Engineer Pathway to PR

To qualify for the Engineer PR Pathway in Australia, you must:

  • Hold a valid visa permitting work as an engineer in Australia.
  • Have a positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia.
  • Have at least three years of relevant engineering work experience.
  • Score a minimum of 65 points on the General Skilled Migration Points Test.
  • Meet the English language requirements.

Steps to Apply for PR as an Engineer

  1. Obtain a positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia.
  2. Submit a General Skilled Migration visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.
  3. Complete medical examinations and police clearances, if required.
  4. Receive the General Skilled Migration visa grant.
  5. Gain the required work experience in your engineering field.
  6. Lodge your Permanent Residency visa application.

Benefits of the Engineer PR Pathway

  • Live and work in Australia on a permanent basis.
  • Access to Australia’s world-renowned healthcare system.
  • Eligibility to apply for citizenship after four years of PR.
  • Availability of education and training opportunities.
  • Ability to sponsor eligible family members to join you in Australia.

The Points Test for General Skilled Migration

To qualify for skilled migration, applicants are assessed on a points-based system that considers factors such as age, education, work history, and English proficiency. A minimum score of 65 points is required to be eligible for PR as an engineer.

English Language Requirement

To meet this requirement, applicants must pass an approved English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL, proving their language proficiency for work and settlement in Australia.

Available PR Visa Options for Engineers

Engineering roles are frequently listed on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which increases the likelihood of being granted a permanent visa. Here are some key PR visa pathways:

Skilled Migration Program

This program is points-based and targets highly skilled professionals. Engineers receive extra points for qualifications and experience. A positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia is required to apply.

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)

Under the ENS, Australian employers can sponsor qualified engineers for PR. You’ll need a job offer and your employer must prove no local workers can fill the role.

Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS)

This pathway is for engineers willing to work in regional Australia. A regional employer must sponsor you and demonstrate the unavailability of local talent for the job.