Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), explained
Trades Recognition Australia manages several trade skills assessment programs. Choose the program using the occupation, passport, qualification history and visa purpose; a trade qualification alone does not identify the right application.
Aarish Haider · Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2619656
Updated 2026-10-22 · General information · Official-source check 2026-10-22
Key facts
| Migration Skills Assessment | A documentary route for eligible occupations and applicants outside the other mandatory programs |
|---|---|
| Offshore Skills Assessment | Uses TRA-approved RTOs, with technical or practical assessment where required |
| Provisional Skills Assessment | For eligible Australian graduates, including a defined graduate-visa purpose and entry to Job Ready |
| Job Ready Program | An employment-based pathway for eligible graduates; distinct from the provisional outcome |
Who this is relevant to
Tradespeople and Australian VET graduates checking the skills assessment program for their nominated occupation.
Requirements
Use TRA’s Pathfinder and the current program guideline. Licensed trades require particular care: the documentary Migration Skills Assessment route does not apply to every occupation, and a migration outcome is not an unrestricted occupational licence. Check the separate licensing steps for the intended state or territory.
Process
- Confirm TRA is the authority for the occupation and visa purpose.
- Choose the applicable program and, for RTO assessment, use the official RTO Finder.
- Prepare qualification and employment evidence and any required technical or workplace assessment.
- Check what the outcome supports and complete any further program or licensing steps.
Evidence
Follow the selected program’s evidence rules. The Job Ready route involves approved employment and workplace assessment; an offshore route may require a technical interview and practical demonstration rather than documents alone.
Common issues
From 30 September 2026, TRA provides HTML program guidelines and puts processing estimates on each program page. TRA expressly says the HTML update changed neither requirements nor the application process. Use current guidance rather than an old PDF or an assumed completion date.
Official sources
Related pages
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