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How to Convert Your African Qualifications for Australian Recognition

One of the first challenges African migrants face when moving to Australia is making sure their qualifications are officially recognized. Whether you studied nursing in Nigeria, engineering in Kenya, or accounting in Ghana, you’ll need to prove your qualifications meet Australian standards before you can work in your field.

This process is called skills recognition or assessment, and it’s a vital step toward employment and migration.

Why Qualification Recognition Matters

  • Required for most skilled migration visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491).

  • Determines if you can work in your profession immediately or need extra training.

  • Helps Australian employers understand your background.

  • Ensures your skills meet local licensing requirements.

Without recognition, you may be stuck in low-skilled jobs despite having a strong professional background.

 

Who Handles Qualification Recognition in Australia?

The organization you apply to depends on your profession:

  • Tradespeople → Trades Recognition Australia (TRA)

  • Nurses & Midwives → AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency)

  • Teachers → AITSL (Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership)

  • Engineers → Engineers Australia

  • IT Professionals → ACS (Australian Computer Society)

  • Accountants, Finance, Auditors → CPA Australia / CA ANZ / IPA

  • Other Professions → VETASSESS (covers a wide range of skilled occupations)

 

Steps to Convert Your African Qualifications

1. Identify Your Occupation Code

Check the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) to see if your profession is in demand and under which ANZSCO code it falls.

2. Prepare Documentation

  • Academic transcripts & certificates.

  • Professional licenses (if applicable).

  • Employment references, contracts, payslips.

  • CV or resume in Australian format.

3. Submit Skills Assessment Application

Apply to the relevant assessing authority. Fees usually range from AUD $500–$1,500.

4. English Language Requirement

Some assessments require IELTS/PTE/TOEFL scores, even if you studied in English.

5. Await Outcome

Assessment results typically take 2–6 months depending on the authority.

 

Possible Outcomes

  1. Full Recognition – Your qualifications and experience match Australian standards. 

  2. Conditional Recognition – You may need additional exams, bridging courses, or supervised practice.

  3. Rejection – If your qualifications don’t meet minimum standards.

 

Tips for a Smooth Process

  • Get documents certified by a notary or commissioner of oaths.

  • Provide detailed employment evidence (job duties, company letterhead, referee contact info).

  • Keep consistency—all documents must match your application details.

  • Seek professional help if unsure—migration agents can guide you.

 

Example: Nigerian Engineer in Australia

Chidi, a civil engineer from Nigeria, submitted his transcripts and 5 years of work experience to Engineers Australia. After a 4-month wait, his skills were recognized. This recognition not only allowed him to apply for jobs but also gave him eligibility for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa, leading to permanent residency.

 

Converting your African qualifications is the gateway to working in your profession in Australia. While the process can be detailed and time-consuming, the reward is worth it: better job prospects, higher salaries, and smoother migration pathways.

Start early, stay organized, and ensure you choose the right assessing body for your field.

 

Achieve Your Migration Journey Today with Afrovo.

We are passionate about helping Africans unlock global opportunities.

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