For a lot of overseas qualified electricians or other trades workers, it is very confusing to find what you need to do to work in your occupation in Australia.
This article is broken into 2 parts:
• What steps you must undertake to work in Australia
• What steps you must take to apply for a visa
Working as an electrician in Australia
Do I need Australian licensing to work in the trade?
To be able to work in many different trades in Australia, you are required to hold a license for the occupation.
Unfortunately there is not one single licensing body for all trades. This is due to the fact that licensing requirements vary throughout the different States of Australia.
Generally speaking any electrical work MUST be done by a licensed electrician.
It is common for many foreign trained electricians to work as a trade assistant for a construction or electrical company, however you are not allowed to undertake any electrical work if you are not licensed.
A trade assistant assists qualified tradesmen and is not qualified in the role.
What if I’m already in Australia on a student or working holiday visa, can I apply to get a license to work here?
Yes you can. The first step towards applying to work in Australia is that you apply for an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR).
What is an offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR)?
Many foreign trades workers are highly skilled in their trade, however there is often different requirements to work in a trade in Australia compared to their home country. The way their skills are applied are different in Australia to back home, this is a skills gap.
The skills gap of Australian and foreign trades practices stems from the different standards enforced in each country. There are different government regulators, different work place rules and different safety codes to follow. Even in Australia there is differences in each states regulations and practices. What might be acceptable in QLD is not acceptable in NSW.
An offshore technical skills record (OTSR) allows an assessor to determine which skills need to be addressed in the gap training. On successful completion of an OTSR, it allows a person to obtain a provisional license which allows them to work under the supervision of a licensed trade worker. The worker must then undertake gap training at a registered training organization and complete supervised work in order to obtain their full license.
What is the process to gain licensing?
Obtaining a full license in Australia can take a considerable amount of time. Below is a brief outline of the steps required to gain licensing for someone who is qualified in their trade in their home country.
1. Apply to have an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR).
An OTSR is done through a registered training organization. There are numerous organisations eligible to provide an offshore technical skills record around Australia.
During an OTSR, the applicant must demonstrate that they have the technical skills required to work in the occupation in Australia. They do this by checking your previous education and experience with the technical competencies that are gained through an Australian qualification.
2. Apply for a Provisional License
Once you have completed an OTSR you can apply to the licensing body in your state for a provisional license.
A provisional license allows you to work in your trade under the supervision of a licensed tradesman. During your provisional license you will need to undertake additional training in order to be provided with the Australian qualification to work in your occupation.
3. Undertake additional training and work experience in your occupation
Whilst on a provisional license the holder must work supervised in Australia and undertake gap training, or Australian specific training. For example you will need to undertake a training course in Australian safety standards.
When you obtain your OTSR you are generally given a list of short courses or training that you must undertake in order to obtain this license, and a time frame in which you must complete this training (usually 12 months).
4. Obtain the Australian Qualification
Provided you have completed the required gap training and the required supervised employment, you can then apply to obtain an Australian qualification for your trade. This is done through the RTO. This is the same qualification that someone who completed an apprenticeship, or undertook the education in Australia obtained
5. Apply for a full license.
Once you have obtained your Australian qualification you can then apply for your full license. Please note having a full license to work in Australia does not guarantee you a work visa. You will still require an employer to sponsor your visa or apply through general skilled migration.
Provisional Licensing vs Full license?
A provisional license is often granted after you have completed your OTSR. On a provisional license you must work under the supervision of a licensed tradesman. However you can undertake gap training in order to obtain your full license.
What Australian Qualification do I need to work in the occupation in Australia?
Applicants are required to have an Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) III Qualification or equivalent to work in most trades. Some common Australian trade qualifications include:
• Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
• Certificate III in Refrigeration and Air-conditioning
• Certificate III in Carpentry
• Certificate III in Joinery
• Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
• Certificate III in Bricklaying/Blocklaying
Applying for a visa as an electrician
Having a license to work in a trade does not mean you will qualify to obtain a work visa in Australia. Additionally, you may be able to obtain obtain a work visa to Australia without licensing (however you cannot work in the role until you obtain full licensing).
What are the most common visas to work as an electrician in Australia?
The most common visas for electricians or other tradesmen to work in Australia are:
- General Skilled Migration (189 or 190) – This is a permanent visa in Australia that does not require an employer to sponsor
- Employer Sponsored (457 or 187) – This visa allows the visa holder to work in their trade for the company in Australia. It may lead to PR after 2 years
What visa requires licensing?
• To apply for general skilled migration (189 or 190) licensing is usually not required for the visa to be granted.
• For employer sponsored visas (457, 187 or 186) licensing is usually required, however visas are often granted without a license in place. The applicant cannot start working in the role without a valid license.
• Students or Working Holiday Makers do not require a license for the visa, however may obtain a provisional license or work as a trade assistant to a qualified tradesman in Australia.
What visas require a skills assessment.
For most countries, only general skilled migration visas require a skills assessment. However certain countries require a skills assessment before they can obtain an employer sponsored (457 or 187) visa
Can I do an apprenticeship if I am an international student?
Unfortunately international students cannot undertake an apprenticeship in Australia. However there are many international colleges that offer course that allow you to become a qualified tradesperson in Australia. Most of these courses include at least 360 hour of work experience with a qualified trades person. Have a look through this link for some available courses in Aus.
What is the difference between licensing and a skills assessment?
A license allows you to work in the trade in Australia. By itself, a license does now mean you will qualify for a work visa. A positive skills assessment allows you to apply for general skilled migration (provided you can pass the other visa requirements.)
Most onshore skills assessments are done through Trades Recognition Australia.
Most offshore skills assessments are done through VetAssess
General Requirements for the skills assessments are:
• Have a trade qualification or education equivalent to Australian standards
• Have at least 3 years post qualification experience
• Have worked in the field for at least 12 months over the last 3 years
I have completed half my apprenticeship or trade qualification back home, can I get qualified in Australia?
If you have completed a partial qualification from outside Australia, you may be able to apply for partial credit transfer so you get credit for some components of an Australian qualification. A city and guilds level 2 from the UK, may be considered comparable to an AQF level 3 under certain circumstances. This is judged on a case by case basis depending on the content of the course studied.
Please note the above information is general in nature and you must consult the relevant skills assessor or migration agent for the correct information specific to your case.
Pathway to Aus has helped numerous tradesman from all over the world migrate to Australia. If you are interested in speaking with a registered migration agent concerning your situation contact Pathway to Aus on:
P: +61 07 55 327 000
Or comment or enquire below
I love Australia
Excellent Shaiful
I have 5 year experience in india in Electrical and instrumentation Eng.,but now i am want switch.please tell me wht is the best way to get job in austalia.
What a fantastic resource for electricians! Thank you so much for writing this. I’ll be sure to bookmark this in case anyone in my network needs it. Thanks.
An electrician is a tradesperson specializing in electrical wiring of buildings, stationary machines, and related equipment. Thanks for the blog and the references.
No problem,
Please feel free to let us know if you have any questions.
I need this job..I’m electrician .I have 2 year experience in Dubai
Hi Sachin,
Do you have qualifications also? Drop us an email at [email protected] and let us know your level of qualification and how many years experience post qualification. Unfortunately we can’t help you find a job but we can help with the appropriate visa!
To be unest ,it was the best information about Trade qualifications I have ever seen , thanks alot
Hi Mohi,
Thank you very much!
I am an Irish qualified electrician. I work in the UK so also have the English equivalent to my qualifications. Along with my quarry safety passport and scissor lift and cherry picker licence.Ive been doing this for 12 years. Do I really need to spend a year scraping by on mates rates as well as forking out money for education and exams? It sounds like I have to redo my apprenticeship. Or is it easier and quicker than that?
G’day Gary, given your qualifications and desire not to study, I’d suggest you book a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents who can advise specifically on your options given your circumstances. I’ll send you over the link if you decide to go ahead with this. Also please see the link to our online Points Test: PTA Points Test
Kind regards,
Team PTA
Mate, there is an option to have your skills assessed in the UK. We will email you a list of skills assessors and you can find one in your local area. Let us know if you need assistance with your visa etc.
Kind regards
TEAM PTA
I am also looking into moving to Australia, I have 11 years experience as a panel builder and Wireman and also just past my level 2 and level 3 2365 city and guilds electrical course. I have been trying to find out the best way of going about things and if my electrical qualifications are recognised in Australia by going to a few company’s and asking, sadly nobody seems to know anything.
Hi Craig,
If you are in the UK, there are plenty of places you can get it done. However, even by getting your skills assessed, it does not guarantee a visa mate.
We will give you an email to follow up and see if we can help
I`m a German qualified electrician. I have been in Oz a few times also working on the working Holiday Visa in 2005 & 2012. In 2012 I worked TA installing Solar around NSW. Is there any chance for me getting back ? I reckon No because I would have done the OTSR etc, when I was there on my WHDV ?!
I went to London for an Seminar and got told that people from Germany can`t get the licence for Australia. Only Canada and the Uk. Cheers Marten
Hi Marten, have emailed you directly.
Kind regards,
Team PTA
You made a good site and giving us such a good and valuable instructions and suggestions on this topic. You did a good job about this category. Thanks for sharing the best information.
Regards
http://www.doorstephub.com/electricians/
Thanks for the feedback!
I am a 4th year electrician (4years working and 3 schooling semesters) in Canada looking to finish or work in the trade in Australia however possible. What is the best way for me to get involved.
Hi Kyler,
We have emailed the information to you.
Kind regards,
PTA team
I am a fully qualified electrician have been for over 15 years in the UK, Do I need different qualifications to work in Australia.
Hi John,
Have a read through this article:
Should you wish to book a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents who will be able to guide you through the process, you can do so here:
Kind Regards
Team PTA
Thank you very much I will have a read
Hi, can a Uk electrician complete the training for a New Zealand license and then apply for an Australian license through mutual recognition
Dear Karl,
You may find this article helpful:
Given your questions is quite specific, it may be best to book a consultation with a Registered Migration Agent. You can do that here:
Kind regards,
The PTA Team
It is full of resourceful information for electrical australia.Thanks for sharing…
Dear Sir,
I am working in elevator/Lift profession since 12-13 years,
I am trying to get PR for Australia,Currently i am working in Kuwait as a lift Technician.
Kindly inform me can i get the job in Australia as a lift Mechanic/Lift Installation/Maintenance Supervisor/Lift engineer.
I have completed Diploma in Electrical in 2005 in India.
Does i need to obtain a license for lift mechanic in Australia?
How much salary i can get initial stage?
Is it that easily i can get the job after i land in Australia on 189/190/457 PR visa?
Hello Nivritti,
We have emailed you directly.
Kind regards,
PTA Team
I am a fully qualified electrician in the uk. I qualified in 2009 whilst running my own kitchen fitting business as it was an avenue I was interested in and needed to because of new regulations. I then finished my business and worked in aerospace manufacturing- not electrical related. I then got a great job working as an electrical test technician for hitachi rail and have been there for the last two years. Am I eligible to do the OSTR? We have been granted permanent residence visas through my wife’s skills.
Hi Phill,
We may be able to assist. The first step is to book a consultation, you can do that here:
Kind regards,
PTA Team
Hi,
My name is arpit
And my father is in India having experience in electrical work for more than 15 years and he wants to work in Australia and he has only diploma in electrical engineering in India so is there option to get work in Australia or how can they apply for get work visa in Australia and one thing more he don’t know too much english. Thanks in advance if you can do any help for my father
Hi Arpit,
Your father can book a consultation with a Registered Migration Agent here:
Wishing you both all the best.
PTA Team
Hi Nick,
Would you please guide in detail to get electrician license within timeline.
I am skilled electrician (in India ) & looking forward to process my PR 190 application very soon.
Thanks in advance…!
Dear Sandip,
Thank you for your comment. Have a read through this article:
Should you need further assistance, please feel free to book a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents. You can do that here:
Kind regards,
PTA Team
Hi Please send your contact number
Hello brother
I have read all your information it’s very helpful. But I have one question ? I’m now student visa in Australia. My Graduation done in electronic communication engineer in India and my My father is electrician so I have worked with my father For four years in electrician Field and I love electrician work . But now I’m studying Master of professional accounting so It is very hard for me Study so I’m very confuse can you help me please
Thank you
Hi Shaik,
It may be helpful to book a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents to discuss your specific circumstances, you can do that here:
Kind regards,
PTA Team
Hello
After already working on a an electrical project on east coast through a UK company recently as an electrician etc.
And also receiving inundated offers of work in sydney/gold coast etc for unlicensed electricians in high demand I would like to be able to return down under & work for 6months + duration…
Only problem is I’m over 31 years old so how would I get a working visa if possible ? Could I get a sponsor maybe.?….cheers
Hi Anthony,
We have emailed you directly.
Kind regards,
PTA Team
Im currently doing apprenticeship in south african and in gas oiled company .its possible to come and work in Australia after I completed my apprenticeship. Please help
Thank you
Hi Mthetheleli ,
It is difficult to advise without all of your details to hand. The best thing to do is to book a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents who can go over the options available to you. You can do that here:
Kind regards,
PTA Team
Hi, I have 3 yr Diplom in electrical engineering with about 14 yrs of experience. I have applied for visa against sponsorship received from SA for 190 visa (General Electrician). Expecting visa grant by May-18. I have my OTSR done through VETASSESS. Please guide me what are the various steps involved till I get my license and can be employed or free lance.
Thanks
Hi Harbinder,
To discuss your specific circumstances, please book a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents. You can do that here:
Kind regards,
PTA Team
Hello, if you could give me advice, I would appreciate very much! Our family is planning to migrate to Sydney with husband’s visa 186. He has finished high school for electrician (general).
We have heard that one man hwo got visa 186 at the same employer, has been deported after 2 weeks working because some inspector came and concluded that he does not work well. I must say that he was experienced electrician. My husband is not so experienced, but we hoped as this is our friend (employer), he could get a chance to learn more.
Could this really happen? Is it possible that after you pass skill test, you can be deported even with visa 186? Thank you very much!
Hi Kaja,
We have emailed you directly.
To discuss your specific circumstances, feel free to book a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents, you can book this here:
Kind regards,
PTA Team
Hello from Canada!
This is a great article and resource… However, I am looking for further info to help obtain employment in beautiful Australia!
I am a licensed Industrial Electrician (Red Seal) from Canada with 9 yrs experience with a predominant background in the mining and oil & gas industries. Would I need to complete the offshore technical skills record and if so, what does it require and can I do it from Canada? Also, if there are any skill gaps I need to fill, can any of the requirements be completed at a distance as well?
I will be applying for employment shortly but would like to know what steps I should take first… is it best to apply/obtain a Visa first or apply for a job hoping to seek sponsorship?
Thanks PTA Team!
Hi Dave,
To discuss your individual circumstances and eligibility, we would recommend booking a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents, you can do that here:
Kind regards,
PTA Team