Applicants who do not have a relevant Australian qualification

Locate and select an RTO to conduct your skills assessment through the RTO Finder.

You must submit decision ready* documentary evidence of your identity, skills and experience to a TRA-approved RTO for assessment. The RTO you choose will advise you what documentation is required.

If the evidence indicates that you have the necessary skills and experience relevant to your nominated occupation, you will be invited to participate in a technical assessment with one of the RTO's assessors.

"Decision ready*" means:

1. all documents requested by the RTO are provided when an application is lodged
2. employment statements conform to the requirements set out in the applicant guidelines

You will be required to participate in a technical assessment of your skills and knowledge. The assessor conducting the assessment will be a qualified Australian tradesperson in your occupation and a qualified assessor.

The assessor will focus on collecting evidence to determine if you meet the requirements of the relevant Australian Training Package qualification. This will involve a technical interview and may involve a practical demonstration of your skills and/or gathering evidence from third parties (e.g. your employers or other referees).

Practical demonstrations of skills are mandatory for the licensed occupations of Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic, Electrician (General), Electrician (Special Class) and Plumber (General).

The RTO you select will discuss the assessment requirements with you prior to conducting the assessment.

All technical assessments will be conducted in English without assistance. Interpreters are NOT permitted.

If successful, you will receive a skilled migration outcome letter. This can be presented to the Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs) with your visa application.

Non-licensed occupation applicants will be awarded the relevant Australian trade qualification.

Applicants in the licensed occupations of Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic, Electrician (General), Electrician (Special Class), Plumber (General) will be issued with an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR). The OTSR is sufficient evidence to apply for a provisional licence with Australian State and Territory licensing authorities.

Applicants who wish to progress to a current, identified Australian occupational licence and/or be awarded the relevant Australian qualification, must undertake further Australian context training and a period of supervised employment in Australia. The training covers Australian-specific knowledge such as workplace health and safety regulations, codes of practice and other Australian standards. Further information can be found on the Pathway to occupational licensing page.

If unsuccessful, the RTO will advise you of the gaps identified in your skills and experience.