Australia is one of the top destinations for IT professionals, especially in fields like software development, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analysis. With a shortage of skilled tech workers, the Australian government welcomes foreign IT talent through various skilled migration programs.
In this 2025 guide, we explain how to move to Australia as an IT professional, the visa options available, eligibility requirements, and how to increase your chances of success.
🧑💻 Why Australia Wants IT Professionals
- Rapid digital transformation post-COVID
- Strong demand in cloud, security, DevOps, and AI
- IT jobs are on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
- Opportunities in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and regional areas
🛂 Visa Options for IT Professionals
| Visa Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) | PR visa, points-based, no job offer required |
| Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) | PR visa, requires state nomination |
| Subclass 491 (Skilled Regional Provisional) | 5-year visa, for regional areas, leads to PR |
| Employer Sponsored (Subclass 186/482) | For IT jobs with Australian employers |
| Global Talent Visa (GTI) | Fast-track PR for high-skilled tech experts in emerging fields |
✅ Step-by-Step Process to Move to Australia as an IT Professional
🔹 Step 1: Check Your Occupation on the Skilled List
Eligible IT occupations (2025):
- Software Engineer (261313)
- ICT Business Analyst (261111)
- Systems Analyst (261112)
- Developer Programmer (261312)
- Cyber Security Specialist (262112)
- Database Administrator (262111)
- Cloud Architect / Network Administrator
🔹 Step 2: Get Your Skills Assessed
Authority: ACS (Australian Computer Society)
You must:
- Submit qualifications + work experience
- Provide reference letters & detailed CV
- Pay ACS fee (~AUD 500–600)
- Processing time: 8–12 weeks
🔹 Step 3: Take an English Test
Accepted tests:
- IELTS (General Training) – Minimum 6 in each band
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
🎯 For maximum points, aim for IELTS 8.0+ (Superior English)
🔹 Step 4: Calculate Your Points (Minimum 65)
Australia’s PR system is points-based.
| Factor | Max Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25–32) | 30 |
| English Level | 20 |
| Work Experience | 20 |
| Education | 20 |
| State Nomination | 5–15 |
| Partner Skills | 10 |
✅ You need 65 points minimum, but 85+ is more competitive.
Use the official points calculator.
🔹 Step 5: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Apply via SkillSelect (online portal). Include:
- Personal details
- IELTS score
- ACS result
- Work & education history
Wait to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
🔹 Step 6: Apply for the Visa
Once invited:
- Submit all documents
- Pay visa fee
- Undergo medical and police clearance
Visa processing time:
- 189 Visa: 8–12 months
- 190 Visa: 6–10 months
- 491 Visa: 9–15 months
💷 Visa Application Costs (Estimate – AUD)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Skills Assessment (ACS) | AUD 500–600 |
| IELTS Test | AUD 375 |
| Visa Fee (Primary Applicant – Subclass 189/190) | AUD 4,640 |
| Spouse (if applicable) | AUD 2,320 |
| Child (each) | AUD 1,160 |
| Medical Exam | AUD 300 |
| Police Clearance | Varies |
🧑🤝🧑 Can I Bring My Family?
Yes! You can include:
- Spouse or de facto partner
- Dependent children
They receive the same visa status as you, and can work or study in Australia.
🧠 Final Thoughts
As an IT professional, you have a high chance of immigrating to Australia in 2025 — especially if you have:
- Strong English skills
- 3+ years of experience
- In-demand tech skills (e.g., cybersecurity, cloud, software development)
✅ Get your documents ready
✅ Plan your points strategy
✅ Apply early — Australia plans to welcome 190,000+ skilled migrants in 2025