Navigate the skills assessment process with expert guidance. We identify the right assessing authority and help prepare a strong application.
A skills assessment is an evaluation by an approved assessing authority that confirms an overseas worker's qualifications and experience are equivalent to Australian standards for their nominated occupation. For many employer-sponsored visa subclasses, a positive skills assessment is a mandatory requirement before the visa application can be lodged.
Each occupation on Australia's skilled occupation lists is assigned to a specific assessing authority. The assessment criteria, required documents, processing times, and fees vary significantly between authorities, making it essential to understand exactly what is required for your specific occupation.
Skills assessment requirements depend on the visa subclass and the specific occupation:
Australia has dozens of skills assessing authorities, each responsible for different occupation groups. Below are some of the most commonly used authorities for employer-sponsored occupations.
| Assessing Authority | Occupations Covered |
|---|---|
| TRA (Trades Recognition Australia) | Chefs, cooks, bakers, automotive trades, electricians, plumbers, carpenters |
| VETASSESS | Professional and managerial occupations across many industries |
| ACS (Australian Computer Society) | ICT occupations including software engineers, developers, analysts |
| Engineers Australia | All engineering occupations including civil, mechanical, electrical |
| ANMAC | Registered nurses and midwives |
| AACA | Architects |
| ACWA | Social workers |
| AITSL | Teachers (primary, secondary, early childhood) |
We confirm which assessing authority covers the nominated occupation and verify the specific assessment pathway that applies. Some authorities offer multiple assessment types (for example, TRA has both the Job Ready Program and the offshore skills assessment).
We review the applicant's qualifications, employment history, and supporting documents against the authority's requirements. Common documents include:
We prepare and lodge the skills assessment application with the relevant authority, ensuring all documents are formatted correctly and all criteria are addressed.
We monitor the assessment progress, respond to any requests for additional information, and advise on next steps once the outcome is received. If the assessment is negative, we advise on appeal options or alternative pathways.
Skills assessment processing can take anywhere from four weeks to six months depending on the assessing authority. TRA assessments for trades can be particularly lengthy. We recommend starting the process as early as possible.
Skills assessments can be complex, with each authority having its own specific requirements for document format, content, and evidence. Our registered migration agent has experience working with all major assessing authorities and understands exactly what each one requires for a successful outcome.
We reduce the risk of a negative outcome by ensuring all documentation meets the authority's standards before lodgement. This saves time, money, and avoids the frustration of having to re-apply or appeal.
Contact us for a consultation. We will identify the correct assessing authority for your occupation and guide you through the entire process.
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