VETASSESS has announced a series of important updates to its Professional Occupations skills assessment processes, with changes taking effect on 1 December 2025. These updates reflect VETASSESS’ ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, higher service standards, and greater clarity for applicants.
These changes apply only to Professional Occupations and do not apply to Trade occupations.
Key Updates
VETASSESS has introduced updates in the following areas:
- New and clarified processing times
- A 28-day timeframe for submitting additional documents
- Urgent processing for applicants who have received an invitation to apply for a visa
- Updated pathways after an initial assessment outcome
- Revised requirements for identity documents
- Updated terminology and structure in outcome letters
Updated Processing Times
VETASSESS aims to finalise Professional Occupation assessments within the following timeframes. These timeframes do not include periods where applicants are required to supply additional information.
- Skills Assessment for Migration: 7 weeks
- Outcome Review: 7 weeks
- Reassessment: 7 weeks
- Appeal: 12 weeks
Applicants will now have 28 days to provide any additional documents requested by VETASSESS.
Key details include:
- VETASSESS will make two attempts to follow up on missing documents.
- If documents are not provided, the application may be finalised as not suitable.
- VETASSESS will always issue a formal outcome rather than closing a case without a decision.
- Applicants may withdraw their application and request a refund in line with the refund policy.
This update is designed to reduce delays and keep assessment timeframes consistent.
Urgent Processing Option for Visa Invitation Holders
Applicants may request urgent processing if:
- They have received an invitation to apply for a visa.
- They have 60 days to lodge that visa.
- Their previous VETASSESS assessment has expired.
This request does not require paying the Priority Processing fee. Applicants must email [email protected] and include proof of their visa invitation.
Post Assessment Options: Reviews, Reassessments, and Renewals
If the outcome is Not Suitable:
- OUTCOME REVIEW (same occupation): lodge within 90 days
- REASSESSMENT (same or different occupation): lodge within 12 months
If the outcome is Suitable:
- REASSESSMENT (different occupation): lodge within 12 months
- RENEWAL (same occupation): lodge within 3 years
Applicants may also lodge an appeal within 90 days of receiving a not-suitable outcome.
These options give applicants flexibility depending on their assessment results and visa strategy.
Updated Identity Document Requirements
Applicants must provide three separate identity documents, including:
- One document that shows full name and date of birth
- One current and valid government issued identity document with photo and signature
- Legal name change documents if applicable. Statutory declarations are no longer accepted
These requirements strengthen identity verification and reduce avoidable processing delays.
UPDATED OUTCOME LETTER TERMINOLOGY
Outcome letters will now use clearer terminology.
A positive outcome will be described as suitable, and a negative outcome will be described as not suitable.
Letters will also include:
- The assessment validity period
- Any known aliases
- A clearer explanation of next steps
Previously issued outcome letters remain valid in their original format.
How Milestone Migration Can Support You
As VETASSESS continues to refine and improve its processes, it becomes more important for applicants to understand the updated requirements and timelines. Milestone Migration is here to guide you through every stage of the skills assessment journey.
We assist with:
- Determining the right occupation for assessment
- Preparing documents for VETASSESS compliance
- Managing reviews, reassessments, or renewals
- Planning visa pathways that depend on skills assessment outcomes
If you need expert support navigating these changes or preparing a strong application, our team is ready to help you move forward with confidence.
Get expert guidance before you lodge. Contact Milestone Migration today.
