MLTSSL Migration Pathway

Welder (First Class)

ANZSCO Code: 322313 | Multi-Trade Industrial Specialist

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Strong Future Demand

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Strong Job Security

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MLTSSL Visa Status

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$70k – $100k Avg Salary (AUD)

PR Pathway Overview

Study

→

Graduate

→

485 Visa

→

Work

→

Skills Assess

→

EOI

→

Invitation

→

Visa Grant

Most applicants aim for 80+ migration points to remain competitive for skilled migration invitations. Regional Advantage: Studying or working in regional Australia provides a significant advantage and grants an additional +5 points to your total. The estimated total timeline from course commencement to permanent residency grant is typically 4 to 6 years depending on your work experience, skill assessment outcome, and invitation round.

Occupation Overview

QualificationsCertificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (MEM30319).
CertificationsAWI Welder Certification; 4-year standard apprenticeship.
Course Duration94 Weeks (Approx 1.8 Years).
Course CostAUD $12,000 – $18,000 / Year
Assessing BodyTrades Recognition Australia (TRA).
Entry Req.Year 12 completion or equivalent; IELTS 6.0 overall.
IntakesFebruary, July, and November.

Job Description & Strategic Insight

Welders (First Class) are highly skilled tradespeople who perform MIG, TIG, and stick welding on a vast range of metals. Demand is exceptionally strong in shipbuilding, construction, and the resources sector, with widespread trade shortages reported across most Australian states.

Business Opportunities • Independent Welding Contracting Firm
• Mobile On-Site Fabrication Services
• Specialty Welding (Stainless & Aluminium)
• Marine & Resource Infrastructure Support

Simple 4 Step Process

Enrol to a Course

Firstly, you must enrol in the right course/courses – one that trains you for a position on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

FIND A COURSE

Apply for 485 Visa

After graduation, you may be eligible to apply for a temporary work visa called 485 Graduate Visa.

Undertake a Full Skill Assessment

Most welding occupations undertake the Job Ready Program through TRA, which generally involves paid workplace experience, technical evidence, and competency verification.

Apply for 189, 190, 491 Visas

Finally, you may be eligible to apply for General Skilled Migration Visas: The Skilled Independent (Subclass 189), State Nominated (Subclass 190) or Regional Nominated (Subclass 491) visas.

Visa & PR Pathways

Skilled Independent

Subclass 189

Direct Permanent Residency
Points-based (No sponsor needed)
Full access via MLTSSL status

Skilled Nominated

Subclass 190

Permanent Residency
State/Territory nomination
+5 Points bonus for nomination

Regional Skilled

Subclass 491

5-year provisional visa
+15 Points for Regional
Pathway to 191 Permanent Residency

Employer Sponsored

Subclass 482

Temporary Skill Shortage
Medium-term stream sponsorship
Pathway to PR available

Regional Employer

Subclass 494

Regional Employer Sponsored
Priority Processing
Direct PR pathway available

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the entry requirements for the welding course?

Most providers require Year 12 completion or equivalent along with an IELTS score of 6.0 overall. Some institutions may also assess basic numeracy and trade aptitude skills.

What intakes are available for welding courses in Australia?

Most vocational institutions offer February, July, and November intakes for welding and fabrication trade programs.

How long does the Welder (First Class) course take?

The Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade typically takes around 94 weeks to complete depending on the provider and practical training schedule.

Does studying regionally provide additional migration points?

Yes. Studying or working in regional Australia can provide an additional +5 migration points toward your skilled migration application.

Is the Welder (First Class) occupation in demand in Australia?

Yes. Welders remain in strong demand across construction, mining, manufacturing, marine engineering, and infrastructure projects throughout Australia.

Do I need a licence or registration to work as a welder?

While welding itself is not nationally licensed, many employers require specific welding certifications, site safety cards, and trade competency verification for industrial projects.

What salary can Welders (First Class) expect in Australia?

Experienced Welders (First Class) can generally expect salaries ranging from AUD $70,000 to over AUD $100,000 annually depending on industry, overtime, and location.