Migration Overseas
Since 1998
A vital step in your skilled migration journey. Understanding your occupation code and assessment authority is essential for Australia PR.
Your occupation classification for skilled migration.
ANZSCO stands for the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations. It is a system that collects, publishes, and analyses occupation statistics across government agencies.
For migration purposes, every eligible occupation is assigned a unique 6-digit code. This code defines the task, skill level, and qualification required for that job.
Example: Software Engineer is ANZSCO 261313
Understanding qualification and experience requirements.
Every occupation has a designated Skill Level (1 to 5) which indicates the range and complexity of the tasks performed.
| Level | Typical Qualification | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Skill Level 1 | Bachelor Degree or Higher | At least 5 years relevant experience may substitute for formal qualification. |
| Skill Level 2 | Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma | At least 3 years relevant experience. |
| Skill Level 3 | Certificate IV or Certificate III with 2 years on-the-job training | At least 3 years relevant experience. |
| Skill Level 4 | Certificate II or III | At least 1 year relevant experience. |
| Skill Level 5 | Certificate I or Secondary Education | Short period of on-the-job training. |
Why you need a positive skills assessment for Australia PR.
Needed for the 189, 190, 491 and 186 Direct Entry visas, and for the 482 where your occupation requires it.
Required to claim experience points on points test.
Verifies your qualifications meet Australian standards.
Declared at invitation. For the 189 and 491, an assessment obtained within the 60-day invitation period is accepted.
Step-by-step guide to getting your skills assessed.
Find your ANZSCO code on the skilled occupation list for your visa: the MLTSSL, STSOL or ROL for the 189, 190 and 491, or the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) for the 482 Core Skills stream and the 186 Direct Entry stream.
Each occupation is assessed by a specific authority. Check which one applies to your profession.
Collect qualifications, transcripts, employment references, and other required documents.
Apply online through the relevant authority's portal and pay the assessment fee.
The authority reviews your qualifications and experience. Processing times vary by authority and occupation, so check the authority's website.
Get your skills assessment result letter. Positive outcome allows you to proceed with EOI.
Find answers to your questions about skills assessment.
ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) is a 6-digit code system that classifies occupations. It's essential for skilled migration as it determines which visa pathways you can apply for, which assessing authority evaluates your skills, and how many points you can claim.
For the Subclass 189, 190 and 491 visas you must have a suitable skills assessment for your nominated occupation, and most 186 Direct Entry applicants also need a positive skills assessment unless they are exempt. For the 482 Skills in Demand visa, a skills assessment is needed only if it is required for your occupation. For the 189 and 491 visas you declare the assessment at the time of invitation, and Home Affairs accepts one obtained within the 60-day invitation period.
Processing times differ by authority, occupation and assessment pathway, and some authorities offer priority processing for an additional fee. Check the current timeframe on the website of your assessing authority before you apply.
Many authorities accept relevant work experience as a substitute for formal qualifications. For example, Skill Level 1 occupations may accept 5+ years of highly relevant experience instead of a bachelor's degree. However, this varies by authority and occupation.
Fees differ by authority, occupation and assessment pathway, and authorities change them from time to time. Check the current fee on the website of your assessing authority before you apply.
Validity differs by authority and is stated on the outcome letter. The assessment must be suitable for your nominated occupation at the time you are invited to apply, so check the validity date on your outcome letter before you rely on it.
Yes, most assessing authorities offer a review or appeal process. You can submit additional documents or clarifications to support your case. Some authorities charge an appeal fee. It's advisable to consult a migration expert before appealing.
The Australian Computer Society (ACS) assesses most ICT occupations, including Software Engineers, Developers, Systems Analysts, Network Engineers, Database Administrators, and other IT professionals. ACS requires ICT qualifications and relevant work experience.
Most assessing authorities don't require English test results for skills assessment itself. However, some authorities like VETASSESS may require it for certain occupations. Note that English test is separately required for the visa application regardless.
Typically required documents include: passport, educational certificates and transcripts, detailed employment reference letters (on company letterhead with duties, dates, and supervisor contact), resume/CV, and any professional certifications. Some authorities may require additional documents specific to your occupation.
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