| Who | Some 482 applicants, by nominated occupation and passport. |
|---|---|
| When | Before or with the visa application. |
| Who assesses | The assessing authority for the occupation, such as TRA for many trades. |
| Cost and time | Set by the assessing authority. Some take several months. |
How to check if it applies
- Confirm the exact occupation code you will nominate.
- We check whether your occupation and the worker's passport need a mandatory skills assessment.
- If it applies, identify the assessing authority and its requirements.
- Start the assessment early so it does not hold up the visa.
We do not copy the list here because it changes. We check it for each nomination.
Planning tips for employers
- Ask about the candidate's passport and qualifications before you make an offer.
- Allow time for the assessment in your start date.
- Make sure the duties in the assessment match the nominated position.
Frequently asked questions
Does every 482 applicant need a skills assessment?
No. It is only mandatory for listed occupations and passport holders, but Home Affairs can ask any applicant for one.
Can the skills assessment be done after lodging?
If it is mandatory, it must be provided with the visa application. Lodging without it risks refusal.
Is the 482 assessment the same as a 186 or 494 assessment?
Not always. The 494 and the 186 Direct Entry stream usually need a skills assessment regardless of passport. Book a consultation to confirm what your visa needs.
Official sources
Updated October 2026. Visa rules, fees and processing times change often, so always check the official sources before you act.