Introduction
Skills Assessment is a pivotal step for professionals aiming to work in Australia. This evaluation determines your eligibility for specific job roles and visa applicability. As StudyStake aims to provide reliable information, this guide aggregates data from licensed migrant lawyers in Australia to help you navigate the Skills Assessment process.
How-To Guide for Skills Assessment in Australia
Understand the Purpose of Skills Assessment
Skills Assessment evaluates your skills in relation to certain job roles in Australia. These assessments are conducted by approved Skills Assessing Authorities, ensuring your skills align with the standards required for your chosen profession in Australia.
Determine If You Need a Skills Assessment
Skills Assessments are essential for professionals from various fields looking to migrate to Australia for work. Key visa types requiring a Skills Assessment include:
General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas
Employer Sponsored visas
Temporary Skill Shortage visa (TSS)
Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
Know the Visa Requirements
Different visa types have specific requirements related to Skills Assessment:
General Skilled Migration visas: Applicants must have a suitable skills assessment for their nominated occupation. This assessment should be valid at the time of invitation to apply.
Employer Sponsored visas: Depending on the stream (Temporary Residence Transition, Direct Entry, or Labour Agreement), the requirements for a skills assessment vary.
Temporary Skill Shortage visa (TSS): Certain primary TSS visa applicants must undergo a mandatory skills assessment.
Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485): Applicants must have nominated an occupation on the Medium to Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and obtain a skills assessment from the relevant authority.
Initiate the Skills Assessment Process
Step 1: Contact the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. Organize your skills assessment well in advance, considering the varying procedures, timelines, and charges of different authorities.
Step 2: Once assessed, provide a scanned certified copy of the suitable skills assessment with your visa application.
When is the Right Time for a Skills Assessment?
Timing is crucial. Depending on your career goals and migration plans, it's vital to strategically schedule your Skills Assessment. This ensures you're adequately prepared, given the varied procedures, timelines, and fees associated with different Skills Assessing Authorities.
Where to Obtain a Skills Assessment?
Australia is home to numerous authorized Skills Assessing Authorities, each specializing in distinct occupations. These authorities conduct assessments adhering to stringent standards, ensuring professionals are aptly prepared for their roles.
Why Undergo a Skills Assessment?
A Skills Assessment is not merely a procedural step. It's a rigorous validation of your professional expertise, amplifying your employability prospects in Australia. Moreover, it's an indispensable requirement for several Australian visa categories, underscoring its significance in the migration journey.
Seek Professional Guidance
While this guide offers a comprehensive overview, it's always beneficial to consult with experts or partners. StudyStake's network of licensed migrant lawyers in Australia can provide tailored advice and assistance, ensuring a smooth and successful skills assessment process.
Conclusion
Navigating the Skills Assessment process in Australia can be intricate. However, with the right guidance and understanding, you can successfully complete the assessment, paving the way for a promising professional journey in Australia.
FAQs
Q: What is the validity period of a skills assessment?
A: If no validity period is shown on a skills assessment, it's valid for 3 years from the date of issue. If the validity period shown is less than 3 years, the assessment is valid for the period stated. If it's more than 3 years, the assessment is valid for three years from the date of assessment.
Q: Can I rely on a skills assessment obtained after I was invited to apply?
A: No, you cannot rely on a skills assessment that was obtained after you were invited to apply.
Q: What evidence is considered a suitable skills assessment for doctors and solicitors?
A: For doctors, evidence of full registration issued by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is suitable. For solicitors, evidence of admission to practice as a lawyer in the relevant State/Territory is considered suitable.
Q: How do I know which skills assessing authority is right for my occupation?
A: The combined list of eligible skilled occupations sets out all relevant occupations under 4 occupation lists. Each occupation on the list has its own skills assessing authority.
Q: What if my skills assessment expires before a decision is made on my visa application?
A: Some skills assessing authorities issue assessments with expiry dates. If provided after the expiry date, the assessment is no longer valid. It's essential to ensure your assessment is valid at the time of your visa application.