Why Indian Engineers Are Moving to Australia in 2026
Why Indian Engineers Are Moving to Australia in 2026
India currently has a large number of engineers, and limited job opportunities have Compelled many professionals to look abroad for better career prospects, higher salary and an improved quality of life. In 2026, Australia’s migration policies are focused on addressing skill shortages in engineering and this attracting indian engineers to start new journey. For Indian engineers, who often hold strong qualifications from institutions like IITs, this aligns with opportunities in booming sectors such as cybersecurity, cloud computing and infrastructure projects. These skilled professional can easily obtain permanent residency through pathways such as the skill in demand visa (189 visa) and state nomination (190) programs.
- Skill Shortages: Over 65,000 engineering vacancies across states.
- PR Success Rates: 74% visa approval for engineers via subclasses 189 and 190.
- Indian Migration Trends: Over 350,000 Indians have migrated recently, with engineers comprising a significant portion.
Real Benefits: What Draws Indian Engineers
1. Competitive Salaries and Financial Stability: One of the top draws is the earning potential. Skilled engineers can command salaries starting at AUD 100,000 or more annually, far exceeding typical Indian IT packages when adjusted for purchasing power. For mechanical or civil engineers, regional roles in mining or construction offer even higher pay, with some reporting AUD 200,000+ for experienced specialists.
2. Superior Work-Life Balance: Indian engineers often cite escaping India’s high-pressure work culture as a key motivator. In Australia, standard workweeks are 37.5 hours, with strict boundaries. Flexible hours allow for family time, like attending kids’ events and four weeks of annual leave is the norm.
3. Access to Quality Healthcare and Education: Permanent residents can enjoy the benefits of public healthcare system, doctor’s visits and hospital stays at little to no cost. For families, free public education for children (with PR) is a game-changer, featuring practical, low-stress learning in small classes.
4. Clear PR Pathways and Job Opportunities: The 2026 migration strategy prioritizes engineers in high-demand occupations with streamlined PR routes like the 491 to 191 visa for regional work leading to full PR. Agreements like the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) extend post-study work rights for Indian graduates, allowing up to four years for PhD holders. This has led to over 350,000 Indians migrating recently, especially in engineering roles.
Step-by-Step Migration Process for Indian Engineers
- Skills Assessment: Mandatory via Engineers Australia (EA) or Australian Computer Society (ACS) for IT roles. Cost: AUD 800-1,200 (₹42,000-₹64,000). Process: Submit CDR (Competency Demonstration Report), qualifications, and experience. Timeline: 8-12 weeks.
- English Proficiency: IELTS (min 6.0 overall) or PTE (min 50). Superior scores add PR points.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Via SkillSelect. Need 65+ points (age, experience, education). Engineers often score high due to demand.
- Visa Options:
- Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Subclass 482): Replaces TSS; streams for core skills (trades/IT/engineering) and specialist skills (high-earners). Leads to PR.
- Skilled Independent (189): Points-tested, no sponsor; live anywhere.
- Skilled Nominated (190): State nomination adds 5 points; commit to state for 2 years.
- Skilled Work Regional (491): For regional areas; pathway to 191 PR after 3 years.
- State Breakdown: NSW invites civil engineers at 85 points, software at 90; WA/SA lead in 2026.
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): Based on points; apply within 60 days.
Common Pitfalls: Incomplete CDRs, low points, skipping state nominations. Use a registered Australia PR consultant or Australia PR agent to avoid delays.
What is the Cost of Australia PR from India for Engineers in 2026?
Pr for Australia from India cost typically ranges from ₹3–8 lakh (all inclusive) depending on your family size and pathway:
- Visa application fee (189/190/491): Approx. AUD 4,910 for primary applicant (~₹2.8 lakh)
- Engineers Australia skills assessment: AUD 1075 (₹68,918)
- English test: ₹15,000–20,000
- Medical + police clearance: ₹10000 Max
- Document translation, certification, and consultation: Varies
State nomination may add small fees, but the investment pays off quickly with Australian salaries.
Note: As immigration rules frequently change, we recommend checking the official website or consulting a qualified Australia PR consultant for the most accurate and up-to-date information. For more Accurate Information Contact Us.
In-Demand Engineering Fields in 2026
Australia’s job market favors:
- Software/IT Engineering: Booming with AI/ML demand; salaries AUD 104,000-153,750.
- Civil/Structural: Infrastructure push; AUD 85,000-130,000.
- Mechanical/Electrical: Mining/resources; AUD 95,000-125,000.
- AI Engineers: High demand premiums.
- Regional Demand: Queensland for mining, Melbourne for projects.
Tips for Indian Engineers: How to Succeed
- Prepare Early: Get EA assessment; tailor resume to Aussie style (focus on achievements).
- Network: Join OQE Hub, LinkedIn groups; attend expos like Elevation 2026.
- Target Regions: QLD/WA for faster invites, lower competition.
- Upskill: BIM, AI, sustainability for edge.
- Avoid Pitfalls: Use agents; budget for initial months; learn local regs.
- Family Prep: Research schools, communities; plan visits.
- Job Search: Apply via Seek; consider contracts for entry.
Meet Our Australia PR Consultant
Applying for an australia pr visa from india can feel overwhelming, especially with changing rules and high competition. Even a small mistake can slow down your progress.
At GIEC Global Australia, our experienced immigration consultants guide engineers through every stage — from profile assessment to final submission. With the right strategy, you can avoid common errors and move closer to your goal of living and working in Australia.
👉 If you’re serious about your future, consider booking a consultation to understand your eligibility, estimated timeline, and the best pathway for your profile.
Suman Prem
Registered Migration Agent specializing in Australian immigration law. Providing expert guidance for visa applications, permanent residency, and citizenship matters.
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FAQs
To qualify for an Australia PR visa, you need at least 65 points in the SkillSelect system based on age (max 30 points for 25-32), English proficiency (up to 20 points), work experience (up to 15 points), education (up to 20 points), and other factors. Your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL). Engineers typically score well due to high demand.
The process can take 8-12 months from skills assessment to visa grant. Skills assessment: 8-12 weeks; EOI to ITA: 1-3 months (depending on points and invitations); visa processing: 4-6 months. Regional visas like 491 may be faster with state nominations.
While not mandatory, a registered Migration Agent (MARA-certified) is recommended to avoid errors in CDRs, EOIs, or applications. They can boost success rates, especially for complex cases. GIEC Global Australia has a MARA agent to guide applicants through the process professionally and accurately.
Yes, spouses and dependent children (under 23) can be included. They get the same PR rights, including work/study. Add AUD 2,455 (₹1.38 lakh) per adult and AUD 1,230 (₹69,000) per child to visa fees.
Improve with superior English scores, state nominations (+5-15 points), or partner skills (+5 points). Consider student visas for post-study work leading to PR, or consult an Australia PR agent for strategies.
