A positive skills assessment is mandatory for most Australian skilled visas. This guide covers everything you need to know about the process.
What is Skills Assessment?
Skills assessment is an evaluation by a designated assessing authority to determine if your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation.
Key Assessing Authorities
Engineers Australia (EA)
For: Engineering occupations Timeline: 6-12 weeks Cost: AUD $745-$1,395 Requirements:
- Relevant engineering degree
- Competency demonstration report (CDR)
- Career episodes
ACS (Australian Computer Society)
For: ICT occupations Timeline: 10-12 weeks Cost: AUD $550 Requirements:
- ICT qualifications or equivalent
- Work experience in ICT
- Project Report for skilled employment
CPA Australia/CA ANZ/IPA
For: Accounting occupations Timeline: 4-8 weeks Cost: AUD $950-$1,200 Requirements:
- Accounting degree
- Work experience
- Professional membership
VETASSESS
For: Various professional and trade occupations Timeline: 12-20 weeks Cost: AUD $950-$1,300 Requirements:
- Relevant qualifications
- Work experience requirements vary
TRA (Trades Recognition Australia)
For: Trade occupations Timeline: 10-16 weeks Cost: Varies by pathway Requirements:
- Trade qualifications
- 3-4 years work experience
- May require Job Ready Program
The Assessment Process
Step 1: Choose Your Occupation
- Must be on relevant skilled occupation list
- Must match your qualifications and experience
- Check with appropriate assessing authority
Step 2: Gather Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Employment references
- Position descriptions
- Skills reports (for some authorities)
Step 3: Submit Application
- Complete online application
- Upload supporting documents
- Pay assessment fee
Step 4: Wait for Outcome
- Timeline varies by authority
- May request additional information
- Receive outcome letter
Common Outcomes
Suitable:
- You meet requirements
- Can proceed with visa application
Provisionally Suitable:
- Meet most requirements
- May need additional experience
- Limited validity period
Not Suitable:
- Don't meet requirements
- Consider different occupation
- May appeal decision
Tips for Success
- Start Early: Assessment takes 2-6 months
- Be Thorough: Provide all requested documents
- Get Good References: Detailed, on company letterhead
- Professional Help: Consider migration agent for complex cases
- Keep Copies: Maintain all documents for visa application
Costs and Timelines
Total Cost Range: AUD $500-$2,000 Total Timeline: 2-6 months
After Assessment
Once you have positive assessment:
- Valid for 3 years typically
- Submit EOI through SkillSelect
- Wait for invitation
- Apply for visa within 60 days
For help determining if you're likely to receive a positive skills assessment, use our free eligibility assessment tool.