VETASSESS overhauled professional skills assessment processes from 01 December 2025, introducing new processing times, identity rules and outcome terminology for migration applicants.
By the Numbers
VETASSESS confirmed the changes will apply only to professional occupations and will not affect trade assessments. The authority said the updates aim to improve consistency, transparency and turnaround times.
Under the revised system, VETASSESS targets a seven-week processing timeframe for professional skills assessments, outcome reviews and reassessments. Appeals will take up to 12 weeks, calculated from the date of lodgement and excluding delays caused by missing documents.
Stricter Document Deadlines
Applicants will have 28 days to submit additional documents or information requested after lodgement. If applicants fail to respond, VETASSESS will make two further attempts before finalising the assessment based on available information.
VETASSESS said it will not close cases without a decision. Applicants may request withdrawal, subject to the existing refund policy.
Urgent Processing for Invited Applicants
Visa applicants who receive an invitation to apply and have only 60 days to lodge (whilst holding an expired skills assessment) may request urgent processing at no extra cost. Requests must be emailed to VETASSESS with evidence of the visa invitation.
Post-Assessment Options Clarified
The update also clarifies pathways following an initial full skills assessment.
Applicants who receive a not suitable outcome may request an outcome review within 90 days, lodge a reassessment for the same occupation within 12 months or apply for reassessment in a different occupation within the same period.
Applicants with a suitable outcome may seek reassessment for a different occupation within 12 months or renew the same occupation assessment within three years.
Appeals must be lodged within 90 days of a not suitable outcome and may include additional supporting evidence.
New Identity Requirements
VETASSESS will require applicants to submit at least three identity documents. These must include one document showing full name and date of birth and one current government-issued photo ID with a signature. Applicants who have changed their legal name must provide formal documentary evidence of each change.
Outcome Letters Renamed and Expanded
Outcome letters will adopt a new format, clearly stating assessment validity periods, known aliases and detailed next steps. Terminology will also change. Positive results will be called ‘suitable outcomes’, whilst negative results will be labelled ‘not suitable outcomes’.
VETASSESS said previously issued outcome letters will remain valid and unchanged.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
