Australia needs skilled mechanics and automotive technicians

Visas for Mechanics and Automotive Tradespeople

On both the employer-sponsored and points-tested visas, it is almost always the trade skills assessment, not the visa, that decides how fast you get here. Get your ANZSCO code and your TRA evidence right at the start and the rest of the process is far more predictable.

Motor mechanics (ANZSCO 321211), diesel motor mechanics (ANZSCO 321212), and automotive electricians (ANZSCO 321111) are skilled trades that appear on the Australian skilled occupation lists. Overseas mechanics with a genuine trade background and documented employment history can pursue both the employer-sponsored and points-tested pathways.

The skills assessment authority for automotive trades is Trades Recognition Australia (TRA). A positive TRA assessment is the gateway to most skilled visa pathways for mechanics.

VISA OPTIONS FOR MECHANICS

Employer sponsorship (482, 186): an automotive workshop or fleet operator that is an approved sponsor can nominate an overseas mechanic for a 482 visa. After two years in role, the employer nominates for the permanent 186.

Skilled independent (189): if the occupation is on the MLTSSL, a positive TRA assessment and a competitive points score open the 189 without employer sponsorship.

State nomination (190, 491): state-specific nomination programs sometimes target automotive trades, particularly for regional areas with documented shortage.

TRA ASSESSMENT FOR MECHANICS

Step 1 Confirm ANZSCO: 321211

Confirm ANZSCO: 321211 (Motor Mechanic), 321212 (Diesel Motor Mechanic), or 321111 (Automotive Electrician). Confirm your primary occupation before beginning assessment preparation.

Step 2 Gather TRA documentation: trade certificates, apprenticeship records, employment references, payslips

Step 3 Lodge the TRA application

Lodge the TRA application. Allow for current processing time.

Step 4 On positive assessment: proceed with EOI in SkillSelect or confirm employer sponsorship pathway with MigrationBuro

Step 5 Lodge the visa application

Speak to a Migration agent

Call 1300 VISA OZ (1300 8472 69) to discuss your visa or sponsorship options. Available Monday to Friday. Zoom consultations take 45-60 minutes and give you a clear answer on what is achievable.

Prefer to start in writing? Email info@migrationburo.com.au with the role title, the occupation, and the candidate's nationality and qualifications.

Skills in Demand (SID) Visa

(Subclass 482)
Custom migration pathways for businesses facing ongoing skills shortages, including DAMA’s, industry-specific Labour agreements and Company Specific Labour Agreements.

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Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)

Secure permanent residency for skilled international employees, strengthening your workforce with long-term expertise.

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Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)
This visa provides a way for skilled workers in specific occupations, nominated by their employer for a position in a designated regional area, to live and work in Australia for five years. This visa contains two ‘streams’ with varying conditions and eligibility requirements. Click below to learn more, and contact us for professional advice and assistance.

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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

A points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers in an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list, with no employer or state nomination required.

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Your Australian Visa application

Some frequently asked questions

Answers to some questions we often hear from people in your situation.

Is diesel mechanic experience accepted for a motor mechanic TRA assessment?

The ANZSCO code determines the assessment scope. A diesel motor mechanic (321212) and a motor mechanic (321211) are different ANZSCO codes with different occupation definitions. Confirm the right code for your work history at consultation.

What type of employment evidence does TRA require for mechanics?

Employer references on company letterhead documenting your tasks, tools, and competencies; payslips or equivalent wage records; and any trade certificates or technical papers.

Do automotive workshops in Australia sponsor overseas mechanics?

Yes, where they meet approved sponsorship criteria and can demonstrate the position is genuine and salary meets the CSIT (Core Skills Income Threshold).

Can a sponsored worker's family come to Australia with them?

Yes. Partners and dependent children can be included in the application as secondary applicants. Each secondary applicant is subject to health and character requirements. Partners may work full-time. Secondary applicants are named in the visa grant and subject to the same conditions as the primary holder.

What is the difference between a 482 and a 186 visa?

The 482 (Skills in Demand) is a temporary visa, typically granted for two to four years. The 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) is permanent residence. Many 482 holders transition to a 186 after two years of sponsored employment under the Temporary Residence Transition stream. The 186 can also be lodged directly via the Direct Entry stream if the worker holds the right qualifications and the role meets the criteria.

Migration experience you can trust

MigrationBuro are your trusted migration agents in Brisbane. Founded and led by Andrew Heathcote, we specialise in Australian immigration services. Registered since 2008, Andrew is a registered migration agent (MARN 0850840) and a member of the Migration Institute of Australia, ensuring expert guidance through every step of the immigration process.