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Guide

Australia Skills Assessment Explained

Before you submit an Expression of Interest for a points-tested skilled visa (189/190/491), you need a positive skills assessment from the authority that assesses your nominated occupation. Each field has a designated body with its own rules and documents.

Assessing authorities by field

FieldAssessing authorityNotes
EngineeringEngineers AustraliaCDR required for non-accredited degrees
ICTACSRPL report for non-ICT qualifications
AccountingCPA Australia / CA ANZProfessional year may apply
TradesTrades Recognition Australia (TRA)Practical/skills assessment
NursingANMACRegistration + English
TeachingAITSLRegistration + English
Many professionsVETASSESSQualification + employment check

Documents you'll usually need

Degree certificates and transcripts, detailed employment reference letters aligned to your ANZSCO duties, CV, English test results, and identity documents. Engineers generally need a Competency Demonstration Report (CDR); ICT applicants may need an ACS RPL report.

How ImmiPace helps

We identify the correct assessing authority and occupation code, prepare a submission-ready document set, and write specialist reports where required — including Engineers Australia CDRs and ACS RPL reports via our writing desk at cdr.immipace.com.

Frequently asked questions

Do all skilled visas need a skills assessment?

Points-tested skilled visas (189, 190, 491) require a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation before you lodge an EOI. Requirements vary by occupation and authority.

How long is a skills assessment valid?

Validity is commonly around three years, but it depends on the authority and occupation. Always confirm the current validity period before you rely on it.

Do engineers always need a CDR?

Engineers whose qualifications are covered by an accreditation agreement may use a different pathway, but those with non-accredited degrees generally need a CDR for Engineers Australia. We can confirm and prepare it.

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