How to Get Permanent Residency for Civil Engineering Draftsperson in Australia: Study, Skills Assessment & Visa Options
- RACC Australia - Education and Migration Services
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
The path to Permanent Residency as a Civil Engineering Draftsperson in Australia is clearer than ever. With Australia facing growing demand for skilled infrastructure professionals, international students who complete the right qualifications have access to multiple migration pathways.
This guide outlines the key step from studying a CRICOS-approved course to gaining skills assessment and applying for skilled or employer-sponsored visas.
Permanent Residency as a Civil Engineering Draftsperson in Australia (ANZSCO 312211)
Civil Engineering Draftspersons prepare technical drawings and plans for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, pipelines, and subdivisions. They use CAD software and collaborate with engineers to convert concepts into construction-ready documentation.
This occupation is listed on both the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), making it eligible for a wide range of skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas.
Study Pathway for Civil Engineering Draftsperson
To become a Civil Engineering Draftsperson in Australia, most international students complete:
Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design
Duration: 2 years full-time
CRICOS-approved: Yes (required for student visa holders)
Entry Requirements: Year 12 or equivalent and English proficiency
This course equips students with practical drafting skills and prepares them for technical roles in civil infrastructure projects.
Skills Assessment Process
A positive skills assessment is required to apply for most skilled migration visas. Depending on your qualification and background, one of the following authorities will assess your application:
VETASSESS: For students holding a Diploma of Civil Construction Design or equivalent
Engineers Australia: For applicants with a higher education degree or overseas civil engineering qualification
Applicants need to provide academic transcripts, a resume, ID documents, and evidence of project or work experience. In some cases, Engineers Australia may require a Competency Demonstration Report (CDR).
Visa Pathways to Permanent Residency for Civil Engineering Draftsperson Australia
Because this occupation is on both the MLTSSL and CSOL, a wide range of visa options are available from temporary work visas to direct PR options.
Skilled Migration:
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa (no sponsorship required)
Subclass 190 – State Nominated Visa
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa (state or family sponsored)
Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa (Post-Vocational Stream)
Employer-Sponsored and Other Pathways:
Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand Visa (core stream only)
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (Direct Entry or TRT)
Subclass 494 – Regional Employer Sponsored Visa
Subclass 407 – Training Visa
DAMA (Designated Area Migration Agreement) – in selected regions
Recent rounds have issued invitations at just 70 points, highlighting the strong demand for this occupation.
Job Outlook and Industry Shortage
Australia’s infrastructure sector is facing a significant shortage of civil design professionals. Recent reports show:
Over 50,000 engineering roles are currently unfilled
$15 billion in construction work has been delayed due to labour shortages
Engineers Australia projects that 60,000 additional engineering graduates will be needed by 2035
This shortage includes drafting and design roles that support project delivery in both metro and regional areas!
Tips for International Students
If you’re aiming to secure Permanent Residency as a Civil Engineering Draftsperson in Australia, consider these tips:
Ensure your course duration is 2 years and CRICOS-approved
Plan early for your skills assessment
Improve your PR points with regional study, English scores, or work experience
Check state nomination criteria, which can vary by region
Speak with RACC for tailored advice by our Registered Migration Agent
Ready to Get Permanent Residency as a Civil Engineering Draftsperson in Australia?
Civil Engineering Draftsperson is a high-demand occupation with strong migration pathways and long-term job prospects. With the right qualification and planning, you can build a career in Australia and move confidently toward Permanent Residency.
Whether you're finalising your study plans or ready to apply for a visa, RACC is here to help. Our Registered Migration Agents and Education Consultants support international students at every step from enrolment to PR.
Book a consultation today to get personalised advice on how to start your journey.
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