Are you a Welder, Metal Fabricator, or skilled tradesperson looking for better career opportunities abroad? Now is the perfect time to consider migrating to Australia, where your skills are not only valued but actively sought after.
Australia’s growing economy and skilled labour shortages mean employers are hiring internationally to meet their workforce needs. If you’ve been dreaming of building a future in Australia, there are visa pathways designed just for skilled tradespeople like you.
In-Demand Skilled Tradespeople: Welders, Metal Fabricators & More
Skilled workers are highly in demand across Australia, particularly in sectors such as:
- Construction & Infrastructure
- Mining & Resources
- Shipbuilding & Maritime
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture & Regional Development
Australian employers are looking for people with a strong work ethic, hands-on experience, and attention to detail.
Your Pathways to Australia
1. 482 Visa – Skills in Demand (SID)
This is a temporary visa (up to 4 years) that allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers to fill roles they can’t source locally.
The employer is required to identify an occupation that aligns with the role on offer. This will determine the application stream:
- Core Skills Stream – occupation appears on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), and the salary is above the Core Skills Income Threshold of $76,515 per annum
- Specialist Skills Stream – occupation not on the CSOL, but appears in ANZSCO (2022 version) and salary is above the Specialist Skills Income Threshold of $141,210 per annum. Does not include Major Groups 3, 7, or 8 in the ANZSCO.
You must:
- Meet the skill requirement for their nominated occupation as set out in the ANZSCO. Note that certain occupations require a formal skill assessment.
- Evidence at least 12 months of full-time (or part-time/casual equivalent) work experience in their occupation, completed within the 5 years immediately before applying
- Demonstrate Vocational level English ability
- Meet health and character requirements
2. 186 Visa – Employer Nomination Scheme
This visa offers direct permanent residency. Requirements for a 186 visa:
- Nomination by an Australian employer is required for this visa type. The business must demonstrate that it is actively operating and there is a genuine need for the position.
- The role must attract a ‘market rate’ salary that is no less than the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) of $76,515.
- A one-off Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy payment is payable for each nomination, with the amount determined by the turnover of the sponsoring business.
There are distinct differences between the two visa pathways:
- Direct Entry Stream
- Temporary Residence Transitional Stream
You can read more about each of these streams here.
3. 494 Visa – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional)
Australia is encouraging skilled migration to regional areas where worker shortages are even more urgent. This visa:
- Is valid for 5 years
- Requires a regional employer to sponsor you
- Offers a direct pathway to Permanent Residency via the 191 visa after 3 years
Perfect for skilled tradespeople willing to live and work outside of major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane.
What You Need to Apply
To apply for any of these visas, you’ll typically need:
- A skills assessment in your nominated occupation
- Proof of recent work experience (1–3 years, depending on visa)
- Functional or Competent level English
- A willing employer sponsor
- To meet health and character requirements
Why Skilled Tradespeople Should Consider Australia
- High salaries and strong workplace protections
- Good quality of life and a family-friendly environment
- Clear pathways to permanent residency and citizenship
- Opportunity to bring your family with you
- A supportive community already thriving in Australia
Ready to Make the Move?
At AVIE (Australian Visa & Immigration Experts), we help skilled workers navigate every step of the process.
If you’re a Welder, Metal Fabricator, Electrician, or skilled tradesperson ready to take the next step in your career, Australia wants you.
Book a Consultation Today
Let us help you turn your Australian dream into a reality: https://avie.com.au/get-in-touch/
Opportunities are waiting—don’t miss out!