What to Expect as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, ANZSCO 234611
Medical Laboratory Scientists are highly valued in Australia's General Skilled Migration programme. Placed squarely on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), this occupation provides access to the 189, 190, and 491 visa pathways. Because healthcare is a major priority for the Australian government, professionals in this field often experience a more favourable environment compared to general occupations, with targeted invitation rounds occasionally driving down the minimum required points.
Subclass 189
Skilled Independent
Recent trends show you may need around 80 points to be competitive. Healthcare workers are often prioritised in targeted rounds, making this a very realistic goal.
→ Read our 189 guideSubclass 190
State Nominated (+5 pts)
A fantastic option for medical professionals. Most states are actively looking for pathology and laboratory staff to bolster their local health systems.
→ Read our 190 guideSubclass 491
Regional (+15 pts)
A highly accessible pathway if you are happy to live outside the major capitals. Regional hospitals constantly need skilled laboratory scientists.
→ Read our 491 guideComparing Your Options
| Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
|---|
| Nomination bonus | +0 | +5 | +15 |
| Target points | 80+ pts | 75+ pts | 65+ pts |
| Occupation list | MLTSSL | MLTSSL | MLTSSL |
| Level of competition | Medium/High | Medium | Low/Medium |
| Assessing body | AIMS | AIMS | AIMS |
Remember, these target points are estimates based on recent trends. The Department of Home Affairs does not publish guaranteed cutoffs, and state requirements vary. When scores tie, a "date of effect" rule applies, prioritising older EOIs.
→ Check our latest invitation round analysisGetting Your AIMS Skills Assessment
You absolutely must have a positive skills assessment before you can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
The Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMS) handles Medical Laboratory Scientist assessments.
| Assessing body | AIMS |
| Official website | aims.org.au |
| Typical wait time | Up to 6 months (no express service available) |
| Expected fee | AUD $900–$990 (plus exam fee if required) |
| English requirement | Proficient English (e.g. IELTS 7.0 in all bands) required upfront |
| Baseline education | AIMS-accredited degree or passing the AIMS Professional Examination |
The Hidden English Advantage
Because AIMS mandates Proficient English just to process your skills assessment, you are practically guaranteed to claim at least 10 points for English when you lodge your EOI. This gives you a strong head start compared to general occupations where applicants might only scrape by with Competent English.
⚠ Watch your processing times: AIMS can take up to 6 months to finalise an assessment, so you should start the process well before your current visa expires.
State Nomination Options for Medical Laboratory Scientists
State nomination gives you a handy +5 points (190) or +15 points (491). Health professionals are often highly sought after by the states.
| State | 190 Active? | 491 Active? | What to keep in mind |
|---|
| NSW | Yes | Yes | Prioritises healthcare, but often requires you to be currently working in your nominated occupation in NSW. |
| VIC | Yes | Yes | Historically fast-tracks health sector applications. You must submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) first. |
| QLD | Yes | Yes | Strong demand in regional hospital networks. Often has specific criteria for graduates versus offshore applicants. |
| SA | Yes | Yes | Very favourable for those who studied locally or are already working in South Australia's health system. |
| WA | Yes | Yes | Frequently lists medical occupations under WASMOL Schedule 1 or 2. |
Note: State occupation lists can change without notice. Always verify your eligibility directly on the official state migration websites.
→ Which state is right for me?How to Boost Your PR Points
If your score is sitting around 65 or 70, here are a few ways to increase your chances.
1. Aim for Superior English
Since you already need Proficient English (IELTS 7.0) for AIMS, putting in the extra effort to achieve Superior English (IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79) gives you an additional 10 points. This can easily put you over the line for a 189 invitation.
→ English points guide2. Partner Skills & NAATI
Don't forget the 'extras'. A skilled partner can add up to 10 points. Passing the NAATI CCL test (if you speak another language) adds another 5 points. These are relatively straightforward ways to pull your score up.
→ Read our points guideWill the 2026 Reforms Affect Me?
⚠ Keep in mind: The 2026 points test reforms are currently just proposals. The existing Schedule 6D points system is still fully in effect until any new legislation actually passes.
Healthcare professionals are widely expected to remain a top priority under the proposed Core Skills pathway. While there is talk of adjusting the points test-perhaps increasing base thresholds or adding income-based points-occupations like Medical Laboratory Scientists are likely to stay heavily favoured by state and federal governments to address ongoing medical shortages.
→ Stay updated on the 2026 points test reform