Working in Australia for Tanzanians 2026

Australia's points-based immigration system actively seeks skilled workers in healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and mining. With high wages, excellent quality of life, and clear pathways to permanent residency, Australia is a top destination for qualified Tanzanians.

Skilled Visa Categories

VisaTypePoints RequiredProcessing
Subclass 189Skilled Independent (PR)65 minimum6-12 months
Subclass 190State Nominated (PR)65 minimum6-12 months
Subclass 491Regional Provisional65 minimum6-12 months
Subclass 482Temporary Skill ShortageN/A (employer sponsor)1-4 months
Subclass 494Employer-Sponsored RegionalN/A3-8 months
Subclass 186Employer Nomination (PR)N/A6-12 months

Points Test Calculator

FactorPointsNotes
Age 25-3230Maximum age points
Age 33-3925Decreases with age
IELTS 8.0+ each20Superior English
IELTS 7.0+ each10Proficient English
Bachelor's degree15From recognised institution
Master's/PhD20Higher qualification
8+ years experience15In nominated occupation
State nomination (190)5State sponsors you
Regional nomination (491)15Regional area bonus
Partner skills5-10If partner has skills assessment + English

You need a minimum of 65 points, but competitive scores are typically 80-90+ for popular occupations.

In-Demand Occupations

Healthcare

  • Registered Nurses - AUD 70,000-95,000
  • Midwives - AUD 65,000-90,000
  • Physiotherapists - AUD 65,000-85,000
  • Medical Officers - AUD 120,000-300,000+

Engineering & IT

  • Civil Engineers - AUD 75,000-110,000
  • Software Engineers - AUD 80,000-140,000
  • Electrical Engineers - AUD 75,000-110,000
  • Mining Engineers - AUD 100,000-180,000

Trades

  • Electricians - AUD 70,000-100,000
  • Plumbers - AUD 65,000-95,000
  • Carpenters - AUD 60,000-85,000
  • Diesel Mechanics - AUD 70,000-100,000

Other

  • Teachers - AUD 65,000-95,000
  • Accountants - AUD 55,000-85,000
  • Social Workers - AUD 65,000-90,000
  • Chefs - AUD 55,000-75,000

Application Steps

  1. Check Occupation List: Ensure your occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
  2. Skills Assessment: Get your qualifications assessed by the relevant authority (ANMAC for nurses, Engineers Australia for engineers, ACS for IT). Costs AUD 500-1,500.
  3. English Test: IELTS Academic or PTE Academic. Minimum scores depend on visa type and occupation.
  4. Submit EOI: Create an Expression of Interest via SkillSelect. Enter your points claim.
  5. Invitation: If your score is competitive, receive an invitation to apply within weeks to months.
  6. Lodge Application: Submit full application with police clearances, medical exams, and supporting documents.
  7. Medical Exam: Attend panel physician in Dar es Salaam (IOM clinic). Cost ~$300.
  8. Grant: Visa grant typically within 6-12 months.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AUD)
Visa application (Subclass 189/190)$4,640 (principal)
Partner/spouse$2,320
Child (under 18)$1,160
Skills assessment$500-1,500
IELTS/PTE test$400
Medical examination$300-500
Police clearance$50
Total (single applicant)$5,900-7,000

FAQ

Australia does not have an embassy in Tanzania. The nearest Australian High Commission is in Nairobi, Kenya. However, visa applications are submitted online and biometrics collected at VFS Global in Dar es Salaam.

Engineering degrees from UDSM, Ardhi University, and NM-AIST are generally recognised by Engineers Australia through the Washington Accord (if accredited). Submit a Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) for assessment. See our credential recognition guide.

Yes. Regional visas (Subclass 491) require fewer points (15 bonus points for regional nomination) and have lower competition. After living and working in a regional area for 3 years, you can apply for permanent residency (Subclass 191).

Australia Quick Facts

  • Currency: Australian Dollar
  • Min. Wage: AUD 23.23/hr
  • Language: English
  • Min. Points: 65 (competitive: 85+)
  • Processing: 6-12 months
  • Citizenship: After 4 years PR

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