MA

Migration Agents for Accountants

Find migration agents who help accountants migrate to Australia. Accounting is one of the most popular migration pathways but highly competitive.

Key Facts

  • Accounting is on the MLTSSL but highly competitive
  • Skills assessment by CPA Australia, CA ANZ, or IPA
  • High points scores needed (typically 90+) for Subclass 189
  • State nomination and regional pathways more accessible
  • Must complete professional year or equivalent for some pathways
ANZSCO Code

221111, 221112, 221213

Assessing Authority

CPA Australia, CAANZ, or IPA

Accounting Migration to Australia

Accounting has been one of the most popular migration pathways to Australia for decades. While still on the skilled occupation list, competition is fierce — invitation rounds for accountants typically require 90-95 points for the Subclass 189 visa. This makes professional guidance particularly valuable. Accountants in Australia earn $55,000-$80,000 at entry level, rising to $100,000-$150,000 for senior roles, with Big Four and specialist firms paying premium salaries.

Skills Assessment for Accountants

Accountants can be assessed by one of three bodies: CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ), or the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA). The assessment evaluates your qualifications against the ANZSCO requirements. If your degree doesn't cover all mandatory knowledge areas, you may need to complete additional subjects. Processing times are typically 4-8 weeks.

The Points Challenge for Accountants

The biggest challenge for accountant migration is accumulating enough points. With invitation scores regularly at 90+, most accountants need multiple avenues for extra points: superior English (IELTS 8.0 each band = 20 points), Professional Year program (5 points), state nomination (5-15 points), partner skills (5-10 points), and regional study (5 points). A migration agent can map out a realistic points strategy for your specific situation.

Why Accountants Need a Migration Agent

Given the extreme competition for accounting visas, strategic decisions matter enormously. Should you target 189 or is 190 more realistic? Which state is most likely to nominate accountants? Should you invest in a Professional Year? Is employer sponsorship a better path? An experienced agent can prevent wasted time and money on a pathway that's unlikely to succeed.

Costs for Accounting Migration

Migration agent fees for accounting applications are typically $2,500-$5,000. Given the additional steps often required (Professional Year, additional study, state nomination), the total migration cost for accountants can be $15,000-$25,000 including assessment fees, Professional Year ($12,000-$15,000), English tests, and visa application charges. An agent helps you understand the full cost picture upfront.

Relevant Visa Pathways

Skilled Independent Visa

Subclass 189

Skilled Nominated Visa

Subclass 190

Skilled Work Regional Visa

Subclass 491

Employer Sponsored Visa

Subclass 482/186/494

Find Agents by State

Browse migration agents who handle accountants & auditors visa applications in each Australian state and territory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is accounting still on the Australian skilled occupation list?

Yes. Accountant (General) 221111, Management Accountant 221112, and Taxation Accountant 221213 remain on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). However, competition is extremely high with invitation points typically at 90-95 for the Subclass 189 visa.

How many points do accountants need for Australian PR?

While the minimum pass mark is 65 points, accountants typically need 90-95 points for a Subclass 189 invitation due to high demand. State-nominated visas (Subclass 190) may invite at lower points, and regional visas (Subclass 491) are more accessible. A migration agent can calculate your realistic points and recommend the best pathway.

What is a Professional Year for accountants?

A Professional Year is a 44-week program combining formal learning and workplace experience. It's worth 5 additional points for skilled migration. Programs are offered by CPA Australia, CA ANZ, and IPA through approved education providers. The cost is typically $12,000-$15,000.

Which accounting body should I use for skills assessment?

CPA Australia, CA ANZ, and IPA all assess accounting qualifications. The best choice depends on your qualifications and career plans. CPA Australia and CA ANZ are the most commonly used. All three assessments are accepted equally for visa purposes.

Can I work as an accountant in Australia on a temporary visa?

Yes. Employer-sponsored visas (Subclass 482) allow you to work as an accountant for a specific employer. Graduate visas (Subclass 485) allow accounting graduates of Australian institutions to work temporarily. Both can lead to permanent residency pathways.

Find a Migration Agent for Accountants & Auditors

Search our directory of MARA-registered migration agents who can help with your visa application.

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