Navigating the path to obtaining a skilled visa in Australia, particularly the Subclass 190 and 491 visas, involves a detailed understanding of the skills assessment process. As your trusted migration agent, Heenan & Browne Visa and Migration Services is here to offer expert migration advice to simplify these complex requirements.
The Importance of a Suitable Skills Assessment
At the time of invitation to apply for a skilled visa, applicants must have their skills assessed as suitable for their nominated skilled occupation by a relevant assessing authority. This assessment is crucial as it confirms the applicant’s qualifications and work experience align with the requirements of the nominated occupation. Skills assessment is a mandatory component in applying for a Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 visa.
Important Skills Assessment Tips:
The skills assessment must be conducted by an authority specifically designated under regulation 2.26B of the Migration Act. Importantly, the assessment must still be valid at the time of your visa invitation. If a validity period is specified, it should not have expired more than three years after the date of the assessment.
It’s important to note that skills assessments conducted for the Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) visa are not acceptable for Subclass 190 visa applications. This distinction is due to the different intentions behind temporary and permanent migration pathways. If you submit the wrong Skills assessment, your application will be refused.
For doctors, full registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency serves as a suitable skills assessment.
For solicitors and barristers, admission to the relevant State or Territory Legal Admissions Authority, or to the Supreme Court of a State or Territory, is required to prove they meet skills assessment requirements.
Generally, skills assessments are valid for three years unless otherwise stated. If no specific expiry date is given, the three-year validity rule applies from the date of the assessment.
If the skills assessment is based on an Australian qualification obtained while on a student visa, the qualification must be from a registered course as per the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000.
The processing time for a skills assessment in Australia can vary significantly depending on the occupation, the assessing authority involved, and the completeness of the application. Each assessing authority has its criteria and processes, which can influence how long the assessment takes.
Generally, processing times can range from a few weeks to several months. For instance:
– Assessments by Engineers Australia might take around 9 to 13 weeks.
– Assessments by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) can take about 8 to 10 weeks.
– Skills assessments conducted by VETASSESS for general professional occupations typically range from 8 to 12 weeks if all necessary documentation is provided.
It’s important to check directly with the relevant assessing authority for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding processing times for specific occupations.
Understanding the processing times for skills assessments is crucial as it allows you to carefully plan the timing of your visa application process. This knowledge helps ensure that all components of your application are aligned and submitted within the necessary timeframes, avoiding any potential delays or complications.
How Heenan & Browne Visa and Migration Services can help?
At Heenan & Browne Visa and Migration Services, we specialise in providing tailored skilled visa advice. Our deep understanding of migration regulations and our commitment to staying updated with the latest changes ensures that your visa application stands the best chance of success.
For individuals aiming to navigate the complexities of migration law effectively, our skilled visa advice is designed to guide you through every step of your application process. Whether you’re applying for a Subclass 190 or 491 visa, our team is here to help you meet the necessary criteria and maximise your chances of a favourable outcome.
Book a visa consultation today with one of our migration agents in Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns and Melbourne to discuss how we can assist you with your skilled visa application, ensuring your skills are assessed correctly and your journey towards Australian permanent residency is as smooth as possible.
