How Do I Get A Skills Assessment For A 482 Visa?

Most Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa applications do not require a mandatory skills assessment — it only applies if your specific occupation and your passport country both appear together on the mandatory skills assessment list under legislative instrument IMMI 18/039. If they do, you must submit your assessment to the correct assessing authority — usually Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) for trade roles or VETASSESS for professional and managerial occupations — and hold a positive result dated within the last three years before you lodge your visa.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your 482 Skills Assessment

1. Check if you actually need one. Cross-check your ANZSCO occupation code and passport country against the Department of Home Affairs' mandatory skills assessment list. Many applicants assume they need one and pay unnecessary fees.
2. Identify the correct assessing authority. Each occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) is linked to a specific authority — submitting to the wrong one wastes time and money, and fees are typically non-refundable.
3. Compile a decision-ready document portfolio. This includes your passport, certified qualification transcripts, a detailed CV covering your work history, and detailed employment references on company letterhead confirming duties, hours, and dates.
4. Submit online and pay the fee. Assessment fees generally range from AUD 1,000 to AUD 2,800 depending on occupation and whether a technical interview or practical demonstration is required.
5. Complete any technical interview or practical test, if your occupation requires one (common for trade assessments through TRA).
6. Wait for the outcome. Processing typically takes 7–12 weeks, so start early — your visa application is invalid without the assessment reference number if one is mandatory.

You May Be Exempt — Even If Your Occupation Is Listed

You may not need a skills assessment if you:

• Hold a relevant qualification obtained in Australia, or from a country not listed against your occupation
• Already hold the required Australian licence or registration for a regulated occupation (e.g., electrician, plumber)
• Previously completed a positive TRA assessment under the Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP)
• Are nominated by an Accredited Sponsor on a salary of AUD 180,000 or more, with a qualification matching your occupation's skill level