Offshore Skills Assessment for Electricians (General): Your 2025 Guide to Migrating to Australia
Published by Nationwide Migration & Education
Led by Registered Migration Agent Suman Dua (MARN: 1800859)
Are you an overseas-trained electrician hoping to live and work in Australia? This guide is for you. With electricians now receiving invitations at the minimum required points, there has never been a better time to explore your skilled migration options.
At Nationwide Migration & Education, we help qualified electricians navigate the complex process of skills assessment, licensing, and permanent residency — whether you're applying through skilled migration or employer sponsorship pathways.
⚡ Why Electricians Are in Demand in Australia
According to recent SkillSelect rounds, electricians have been invited at just 65 points, which is the lowest threshold. That’s an incredible opportunity if you meet the basic requirements:
Under 45 years old
Competent English (IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent)
Positive skills assessment from an approved body
A successful skills assessment can open the door to several visa pathways, including:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand stream)
🧰 What Is the Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP)?
The Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP) ensures that overseas-trained tradespeople meet Australian standards. For Electricians (General) — a licensed trade in Australia — OSAP is compulsory for permanent migration.
This program is managed by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) and requires a structured 4-step process.
🔧 Step-by-Step OSAP Process for Electricians (No Australian Qualification)
If you don’t have an Australian VET qualification or license, you will follow Pathway 1:
Step 1: Documentary Evidence Assessment
You must provide:
4 years full-time, paid work experience with formal training, OR
6 years full-time, paid work experience without formal training
Plus:
12 months of full-time employment in the past 3 years
Required documents:
Passport
Trade qualifications
Employer references or statements
Contracts, payslips, bank statements
Once verified, you’ll move to the next stage.
Step 2: Technical Interview
Conducted one-on-one with an Australian-qualified assessor. Can be done:
Online (if you meet tech requirements), or
In person at an approved location
Step 3: Practical Assessment
You’ll perform trade-specific tasks to demonstrate your skills in accordance with Australian licensing standards.
Step 4: Outcome
If successful, you’ll receive an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR). This allows you to:
Apply for a provisional electrician license in Australia
Begin supervised work + gap training to get fully licensed
Lodge your skilled visa application
💡 Important Notes
A positive OSAP assessment can also support your application for the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa — if you have an employer sponsor.
VETASSESS is another assessing body that offers similar assessments in different trades.
🛠️ How Nationwide Migration & Education Can Help
If you're a qualified overseas electrician and meet the experience requirements, we can:
Guide you through the OSAP process, step by step
Assist with visa applications and employer sponsorship options
Support your permanent residency journey
We’ve helped hundreds of skilled tradespeople achieve their Australian dreams.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I apply for a visa without completing OSAP?
A: No. For electricians applying from offshore, OSAP is mandatory for permanent migration.
Q2: Can OSAP also help me get licensed in Australia?
A: Yes. A successful OSAP result provides you with an OTSR, which is a key step toward licensing.
Q3: How long does the OSAP process take?
A: Typically 3–6 months, depending on documentation quality and assessor availability.
✅ Ready to Start Your Migration Journey?
At Nationwide Migration & Education, we make migration simple — with expert advice, ongoing support, and real success stories.
📅 Book your consultation with our team today and take the first step toward living and working in Australia as a licensed electrician.
Disclaimer:
The information shared by Nationwide Migration and Education is for general informational purposes only. While accurate at the time of publication, details may change. This content is not intended as legal or migration advice. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please book a consultation with us.
