Which authority assesses my occupation for an Australian visa?

Each occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List has a designated assessing authority. SponsorMap shows the relevant authority on each occupation's page. Common authorities include VETASSESS, Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), ACS, Engineers Australia, and ANMAC.

How long does a skills assessment take and how much does it cost?

Timelines and fees vary by authority — typically weeks to several months, with fees ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the body and occupation. Start early to avoid delaying your visa.

Can I choose which authority assesses me if my occupation lists more than one?

Yes. Where multiple authorities are listed — for example, accounting can be assessed by CAANZ, CPA Australia, or IPA — you can generally choose the one that best fits your qualifications.

Is a skills assessment the same as professional registration?

No. A skills assessment verifies your qualifications for visa purposes. Professional registration (for example, AHPRA for healthcare workers) is a separate requirement to legally practise in Australia.

What is a skills assessment authority? (Australia)

By the SponsorMap team · Last updated 30 October 2026

A skills assessment authority is an official body that verifies your qualifications and work experience match your nominated occupation. For most skilled visas — including the Skills in Demand (482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (186) — a positive skills assessment from the right authority is required before you can apply.

Why it matters

Without a positive skills assessment from the correct authority, your visa application generally cannot proceed. The assessment confirms your overseas (or local) qualifications meet Australian standards for your occupation.

How to find your authority

Each occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List has a designated authority. The fastest way to find yours is to look up your occupation — we show the assessing authority on each occupation page.

The main authorities

Most occupations are assessed by a handful of bodies. VETASSESS covers the largest range of professional and trade occupations; Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) handles most trades; the Australian Computer Society (ACS) assesses IT roles; Engineers Australia (EA) assesses engineering; ANMAC covers nursing and midwifery; and the Medical Board of Australia (MedBA) covers doctors.

What if my occupation has more than one?

Some occupations list multiple authorities — for example, accountants can be assessed by CAANZ, CPA Australia, or IPA. In that case you generally choose and apply to one. Check which best fits your qualifications and situation.

Do this early

Skills assessments take time (often weeks to months) and cost a fee that varies by authority. Start early so it doesn't delay your visa.

Frequently asked questions

Which authority assesses my occupation for an Australian visa?: Each occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List has a designated assessing authority. SponsorMap shows the relevant authority on each occupation's page. Common authorities include VETASSESS, Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), ACS, Engineers Australia, and ANMAC.
How long does a skills assessment take and how much does it cost?: Timelines and fees vary by authority — typically weeks to several months, with fees ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the body and occupation. Start early to avoid delaying your visa.
Can I choose which authority assesses me if my occupation lists more than one?: Yes. Where multiple authorities are listed — for example, accounting can be assessed by CAANZ, CPA Australia, or IPA — you can generally choose the one that best fits your qualifications.
Is a skills assessment the same as professional registration?: No. A skills assessment verifies your qualifications for visa purposes. Professional registration (for example, AHPRA for healthcare workers) is a separate requirement to legally practise in Australia.

Related resources

About this guide

This guide is maintained by the SponsorMap team and reviewed against official Australian government sources. SponsorMap's company data comes from the Department of Home Affairs list of approved sponsors. Visa rules and figures are based on the Department of Home Affairs and are updated as they change. Always confirm your situation with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.

Rules change — always verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).