A positive skills assessment is a key requirement for many Australian skilled migration visas. It verifies that your qualifications and/or work experience match the standards of your chosen occupation as listed on Australia’s skilled occupation lists.
If you’re applying through the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program or seeking an employer-sponsored visa, a skills assessment is often one of the first essential steps.
Visas That Commonly Require a Skills Assessment:
- Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186)
- Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa (subclass 187)
- Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) – Points-tested stream
- Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489)
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
- Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494)
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482)
Understanding Skills Assessing Authorities
Each occupation is assessed by a designated authority. For example, accountants may need an assessment from CPA Australia, CA ANZ, or IPA, while IT professionals may require an evaluation from ACS. Some professions require post-qualification work experience, while others may not.
Keep in mind that:
- Every assessing authority has unique guidelines, documentation requirements, processing times, and fees.
- It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure the correct assessment is completed and submitted.
How Opera Education & Migration Can Help
Navigating the skills assessment process can be overwhelming—especially if you’re applying for the first time. At Opera Education & Migration, our team of qualified and experienced migration consultants is here to guide you every step of the way.
From identifying the right assessing authority to preparing your documentation and lodging your application, we’ll help you aim for a positive skills assessment outcome with confidence.
