Is skills assessment required for MLTSSL visas?
Do you need a skills assessment for an MLTSSL visa in Australia? Learn when it’s required, how it works, and how to prepare successfully.
If you’re considering applying for a visa under Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: Do I need a skills assessment?
In most cases, the answer is yes.
For visas linked to the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), a positive skills assessment is generally mandatory before you can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Let’s break this down clearly.
What Is a Skills Assessment?
A skills assessment is a formal process where an authorised assessing body checks whether your qualifications and work experience match the Australian standards for your nominated occupation.
For example:
- Engineers are often assessed by Engineers Australia
- Accountants by CPA Australia or Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
- IT professionals by Australian Computer Society
Each occupation on the MLTSSL has its own designated assessing authority.
You can confirm the correct authority for your occupation via the official Department of Home Affairs website:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list
When Is It Required?
If you’re applying under:
- Subclass 189 (points-tested independent visa)
- Subclass 190 (state-nominated visa)
- Subclass 491 (regional visa)
👉 A positive skills assessment is required at the time you are invited to apply, and in practice, you must have it before lodging your EOI.
Without it, your application cannot proceed.
Are There Any Exceptions?
There are limited scenarios where a skills assessment may not be required, such as certain employer-sponsored visas (e.g., subclass 482 or 186), depending on the occupation and specific stream. However, for MLTSSL visas under the points-tested system, you should assume it is mandatory.
If you're an international graduate in Australia, you may still need a skills assessment even if you studied locally. Australian qualifications don’t automatically replace the assessment requirement.
How Long Does It Take?
Processing times vary by assessing authority. On average:
- 4–12 weeks is common
- Some professional bodies take longer if documentation is complex
Costs typically range between AUD $500–$1,500, depending on your occupation.
Because this step can take time, it’s important to plan ahead. Many applicants underestimate how long document preparation and verification can take.
Practical Advice Before You Start
- Confirm your occupation is on the MLTSSL.
- Identify the correct assessing authority.
- Carefully review their document checklist.
- Prepare employment references that clearly outline duties — not just job titles.
- Ensure your qualification documents are complete and properly certified.
If you're unsure which pathway suits you best, our team at BRIGENAI has a step-by-step guide on working in Australia:
👉 https://brigenai.com/work-in-australia-guide
You can also explore our migration and career planning resources here:
👉 https://brigenai.com/
Final Thoughts
For most MLTSSL visa applicants, a skills assessment is not optional — it’s a core requirement.
Think of it as your professional verification step. Once you pass it, you’re in a much stronger position to compete in Australia’s points-tested migration system.
