How long a skills assessment takes is an important question for planning, since this step affects the whole timeline. However, the time depends on many factors. This article answers how long a skills assessment takes.
How long a skills assessment takes: depends on the authority and occupation
Skills assessment processing times vary by assessing authority and occupation. Each authority has its own processing time, ranging from a few weeks to several months depending on the occupation and its complexity. So there is no single figure that applies to every case; you need to check with the authority responsible for your occupation.
Some authorities offer a priority processing service with a shorter turnaround, usually at a higher cost. This is an option for people who need results urgently. However, not every authority or occupation offers this service, so it needs to be checked.
Factors affecting the timeline
A major factor affecting assessment processing time is the quality of the application. A complete, clear application helps the assessment go faster; an incomplete or unclear application leads the authority to request additional information, which extends the time. This is the most common cause of delay.
So the skills assessment processing time depends not only on the authority but also on the candidate’s own preparation. Preparing a complete, accurate application from the start is the most effective way to avoid delays caused by having to supplement or clarify information.
Planning around the timeline
Since a skills assessment is a required step before the EOI, candidates should: find out the processing time of the authority responsible for their occupation, prepare a complete application early, start early enough relative to when they want to submit the EOI, and consider a priority service if they need results urgently. Planning ahead helps avoid missing out.
You should refer to information about skills assessment and official website of the Department of Home Affairs of Australia to find out the processing time of the authority responsible for your occupation.
Summary
How long a skills assessment takes depends on the assessing authority and occupation, ranging from a few weeks to several months; some authorities offer a priority service (at a higher cost). A major factor is the quality of the application — an incomplete one requires supplementing, which extends the time. You should find out the processing time of the authority responsible for your occupation, prepare a complete application and start early.
