-
Requesting Guidance on Engineering Technology Experts
Hello everyone,
We are seeking guidance related to migrating to Australia, specifically regarding engineering qualifications and visa pathways.My husband, aged 36, is currently pursuing a Master’s degree through coursework in Western Australia (WA). He has recently completed a skills assessment as an Engineering Technologist with Engineers Australia (EA), focusing on the mechanical engineering sector.
Given that his occupation is part of the WA graduate stream, we understand he is not eligible for state nomination. Additionally, since he is over 35, he does not qualify for the 485 visa.
He is studying in the field of Automation and Instrumentation and is considering a transition to a Master’s by Research format.
If he pursues this change, should he specialize in Mechanical Engineering, where his undergraduate degree in Mechatronics Engineering could be more applicable?
We would greatly appreciate advice on what options we have left for our migration journey to Australia. Your insights and suggestions will be invaluable in helping us make an informed decision.
Thank you in advance for your assistance!
-
1 Reply
-
Hi Khloe. Welcome to our community. 🙂
Some great questions and thanks for reaching out.
Your husband’s situation is complex but not without options. Here’s a breakdown of possible pathways:
1. Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Not Eligible
Since he is over 35, he does not qualify for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), as the age limit is 50 for the Post-Study Work stream but 35 for the Graduate Work stream.
2. Skilled Migration Options
Engineering Technologist (ANZSCO 233914) is currently on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), meaning he can apply for:
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) – highly competitive due to high points requirements.
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) – requires state nomination, but WA’s Graduate stream does not cover Engineering Technologists.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – some states may offer nomination under this pathway.
If he wants to maximise points, options include:
- Boosting English test scores (e.g., PTE, IELTS)
- Gaining Australian work experience (may require employer sponsorship)
- Further studies in a more in-demand field (see below)
3. Master’s by Research – Should He Switch?
If he moves to a Master’s by Research, he may later qualify for the Subclass 491 in WA (or another state), provided he meets nomination criteria.
Choosing Mechanical Engineering (since he has a Mechatronics background) might be a safer option, as Mechanical Engineers (ANZSCO 233512) are widely accepted in skilled migration.
4. Employer Sponsorship Pathway
Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) requires a job offer in his field.
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) is a long-term PR pathway but requires sponsorship.
Look for job opportunities via https://482jobs.com (all roles offer visa sponsorship).
5. Regional Opportunities (DAMA Agreements)
Some Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) regions have broader occupation lists. If he is open to working in specific regional areas, this could be an option.
Recommendation
- If PR is the ultimate goal, transitioning to a Mechanical Engineering Master’s by Research could be beneficial.
- Keep an eye on WA’s migration program updates in case Engineering Technologists become eligible.
- Consider alternative state nominations under the 491 visa.
- If possible, look into employer sponsorship opportunities.
I hope this helps! Feel free to ask if you need further clarification.
All the best
Mark
482jobs.com
482 Jobs - Jobs In Australia Offering 482 Visa Sponsorship - 482 Jobs Australia
482 Jobs - Jobs In Australia Offering 482 Visa Sponsorship - 482 Jobs Australia
Log in to reply.