Skill Assessment Australia: Your Step-by-Step Guide for Skilled Migration in 2025
Planning to migrate to Australia as a skilled worker? One of the first and most important steps is obtaining a Skill Assessment in Australia. Whether you're an engineer, nurse, teacher, IT specialist, or trade worker, a positive skill assessment is a mandatory requirement for many skilled visa applications.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Skill Assessment Australia process—what it is, who needs it, how to apply, and tips for success.
What Is a Skill Assessment in Australia?
A Skill Assessment is an official evaluation of your qualifications and work experience to determine if they meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. It is carried out by designated assessing authorities specific to each profession, under the direction of the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
This assessment is required for skilled visa applications such as:
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Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
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Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
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Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
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In some cases, employer-sponsored visas like the 482 or 186
Why Is Skill Assessment Required?
Australia uses a points-based immigration system. To apply for a skilled visa, you need to demonstrate that:
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Your skills and experience match a job on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List
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Your qualifications are equivalent to Australian standards
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You are competent in English and meet all regulatory standards for your profession
A positive skill assessment ensures the government that you're ready and eligible to contribute to Australia's workforce.
Who Needs a Skill Assessment?
If you’re applying for any skilled visa, you’ll likely need a skill assessment. This applies to:
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Nurses and midwives
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Doctors and medical professionals
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IT professionals
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Engineers
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Teachers and early childhood educators
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Accountants and auditors
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Trade workers (e.g., electricians, plumbers, mechanics)
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Social workers, psychologists, and more
Key Assessing Authorities in Australia
Different occupations have different assessing bodies. Here are some of the most common:
| Occupation Category | Assessing Body |
|---|---|
| Nursing & Midwifery | ANMAC |
| Medical Practitioners | AMC |
| IT Professionals | ACS |
| Engineers | Engineers Australia |
| Teachers | AITSL |
| Accountants | CPA Australia, CA ANZ, IPA |
| Trades | TRA or VETASSESS |
| General Professionals | VETASSESS |
Although requirements vary by authority, most applicants will need:
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Passport bio page (certified copy)
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Qualification certificates and transcripts
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Employment reference letters
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Detailed resume/CV
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Payslips, tax records, or contracts
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English language test results (IELTS, PTE, or OET)
Step-by-Step Skill Assessment Process
1. Identify Your Occupation and Assessing Authority
Use the Skilled Occupation List to find your exact ANZSCO code and the correct authority.
2. Check Eligibility Criteria
Visit the assessing authority’s website for specific requirements for your occupation.
3. Gather Documents
Prepare and certify all required documentation, including proof of qualifications and work experience.
4. Submit Application
Apply online via the assessing authority’s portal and pay the fee.
5. Await Outcome
Processing times range from 4 to 12 weeks depending on the authority and your application’s complexity.
6. Receive Assessment Outcome
A positive assessment means you can proceed with your visa application.
Skill Assessment Fees (2025 Estimates)
| Assessing Authority | Approx. Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| ACS (IT Professionals) | $530–$600 |
| Engineers Australia | $500–$600 |
| ANMAC (Nurses/Midwives) | $340–$515 |
| VETASSESS (General) | $880–$1050 |
| TRA (Trades) | $1000+ |
❌ Incorrect ANZSCO code
✔️ Make sure your job title and duties match the selected code.
❌ Incomplete or unverifiable work history
✔️ Provide clear and detailed reference letters from employers with roles, duties, and dates.
❌ Unrecognized qualifications
✔️ Have your academic credentials formally evaluated or consider additional training if needed.
❌ English test not meeting required scores
✔️ Most authorities require IELTS Academic 6.0–7.0 or PTE equivalent.
After Skill Assessment: What’s Next?
Once you receive a positive skill assessment, you can:
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Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
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Wait for an invitation to apply (ITA) for your chosen visa
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Submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs
Your skill assessment is typically valid for 2–3 years, depending on the authority.
Final Thoughts
The Skill Assessment Australia process is a critical first step in your migration journey. While each profession has unique requirements, the key to success lies in being well-informed, organized, and accurate with your documentation.
By choosing the correct ANZSCO code, meeting the eligibility criteria, and working with your assessing authority carefully, you can significantly increase your chances of a smooth migration process.
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