What are the Skilled Visas Requiring Skill Assessment?

For numerous skilled migration visa categories in countries such as Australia and Canada, a skill assessment is frequently required. This process evaluates your proficiency in a specific occupation and determines your eligibility to apply for immigration. Here, we explore several key visa categories where a skill assessment is a necessary part of the application process.

Understanding Skill Assessments

A skill assessment is an evaluation conducted by an authorized body to ensure that your skills meet the standards required for a particular occupation in the destination country. Successful completions can significantly enhance your chances of immigration approval.

Visa Categories Requiring Skill Assessment

Australia

Australia’s skilled migration process includes several visa categories that necessitate a skill assessment. These include:

General Skilled Migration (GSM) Subclass 189 Visa

This permanent visa is designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family members. To qualify for this visa, applicants usually need a favorable skill assessment. This assessment confirms your qualifications and competencies in your chosen field, contributing to your overall immigration application.

Subclass 190 Visa

This is a state-sponsored permanent visa. To apply, you must be nominated by a state or territory government and have a favorable skill assessment. This is crucial as it verifies your eligibility and matches your skills with the needs of the state.

Subclass 491 Visa

A regional visa that requires sponsorship from either a state or a family. Along with sponsorship, a favorable skill assessment is typically necessary to ensure you meet the necessary standards for the occupation.

Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 Visa

This temporary work visa may require a skill assessment depending on the nominated occupation and other specified criteria. This assessment helps confirm your ability to perform the job required in the host country.

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 Visa

This is a permanent employer-sponsored visa. For certain nominated occupations, a skill assessment is required to meet the job requirements and prove your competence.

Canada

Canada’s immigration system also includes several visa categories that necessitate a skill assessment. These include:

Express Entry

Canada’s Express Entry program, designed for skilled workers, may require a Credential Assessment Report (ECR) to validate foreign educational qualifications. This process ensures that your qualifications are recognized by the Canadian government.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Many Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) in Canada require a credential evaluation. This is a crucial step in confirming that your qualifications meet the standards set by the provincial government.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

To apply for this program, you must hold a valid trade certificate or qualification evaluation. This helps ascertain your proficiency in the trades recognized by the federal government.

Four Primary Visa Categories Requiring Skill Assessment

Focusing on the core categories, the primary visas that require skill assessment are as follows:

1. General Skilled Migration (GSM) Visa

Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 491 - Skilled Work Regional Provisional Visa

2. Employer-Sponsored Visa

These include the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 Visa, where skill assessment may be required for specific occupations.

3. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa

This includes the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 Visa, where skill assessment may be required depending on the nominated occupation.

4. Temporary Graduate Visa

While not explicitly listed, a temporary graduate visa may involve a skill assessment if you are pursuing part-time work opportunities or job offers in your field of study.

Conclusion

A successful skill assessment can play a crucial role in your journey to skilled migration. Whether you’re applying for a visa in Australia or Canada, understanding the requirements and preparing for these assessments can significantly enhance your chances of a successful application process.