Australia has become one of the top destinations for skilled professionals and graduates from Nigeria who want to build a better future, enjoy a high quality of life, and access global opportunities. The Skilled Migration Program offers a direct pathway to permanent residency, making it an attractive option for many Nigerians seeking a fresh start Down Under.

If you’re considering this life-changing move, here are the 5 essential steps to successfully apply for an Australian Skilled Visa from Nigeria, plus expert tips to improve your chances.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you begin, it’s crucial to make sure you qualify for the skilled migration program. The Australian government uses a points-based system to assess applicants for visas such as Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent), Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated), and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional). Points are awarded based on factors such as:

• Age (between 18 and 45)

• English language proficiency (IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL scores)

• Skilled work experience (both in and outside Australia)

• Educational qualifications

• Nomination by a state or territory (if applying for Subclass 190 or 491)

• Other factors such as partner’s skills, regional study, etc.

Tip: Use the Australian Government’s points calculator to estimate your score. You need a minimum of 65 points, but the higher your score, the better your chances.

Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents

Organising your documents early will save you time and headaches later. Some of the key documents you’ll need include:

• Valid international passport

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL results)

• Academic certificates and transcripts

• Employment reference letters (on company letterhead, with job duties, dates, and contact details)

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume

• Skills assessment report from an approved assessing authority for your nominated occupation

• Marriage or birth certificates (if applying with family)

• Police clearance certificate(s)

• Passport photographs

• Other supporting documents as required by your chosen visa subclass

Tip: Ensure your documents are clear, certified, and officially translated into English.

Step 3: Get Your Skills Assessed

To apply for a skilled visa, you must have your qualifications and work experience assessed by the relevant Australian assessing authority for your occupation (e.g., Engineers Australia, ACS for ICT professionals, ANMAC for nurses).

How to Do It

1. Find your occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

2. Identify the assessing authority for your occupation.

3. Prepare and submit all required documents, including academic records, employment references, and proof of English proficiency.

4. Pay the assessment fee and await your assessment outcome.

Tip: Each assessing authority has specific requirements. Visit their official website, review their guidelines carefully, and ensure your application is complete to avoid delays.

Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) Through SkillSelect

Once you have your skills assessment and English test results, you’re ready to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.

An EOI is not a visa application, but it is a way to express your interest in applying for a skilled visa. In your EOI, you’ll provide:

• Your details

• Nominated occupation and the assessing authority’s outcome

• Points claim details (education, work, English, etc.)

• Preferences for visa subclass and Australian states/regions (if seeking nomination)

• Other relevant information

Your EOI will be ranked based on your claimed points and made visible to Australian employers and state/territory governments. If you have a competitive score and meet other criteria, you may receive an invitation to apply for a visa.

Tip: Be accurate and honest in your EOI. Providing false or misleading information can lead to refusal or a ban.

Step 5: Apply for Your Skilled Visa

Once you receive an invitation to apply, you have 60 days to lodge a complete visa application online. This is where you submit all supporting documents, pay the visa fee, and complete medical and police checks.

Steps in your application:

1. Log in to your ImmiAccount and start your application for the invited visa subclass.

2. Upload all supporting documents (ensure they match what you claimed in your EOI).

3. Arrange medical exams with an approved panel physician.

4. Submit police certificates for each country you’ve lived in for 12+ months.

5. Pay the visa application fee and complete the submission.

Your application will then be processed by the Department of Home Affairs. Processing times vary, but you can track your application status online.

Tip: Double-check every document before submission. Missing or incorrect information can delay or jeopardise your visa outcome.

Expert Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early: Some documents (like skills assessments or police certificates) take time to obtain.

• Seek professional advice: Consider working with a migration consultant familiar with the Nigerian context to avoid costly mistakes.

• Prepare for interviews: Occasionally, the Department may request interviews or further evidence.

• Stay updated: Visa policies and occupation lists change. Follow official sources or subscribe to Afrovo updates.

• Don’t give up: If your first attempt isn’t successful, review feedback, improve your profile (e.g., re-take the English test, gain more experience), and try again.

Ready to Begin Your Australian Skilled Migration Journey?

Applying for an Australian Skilled Visa from Nigeria is achievable if you follow the right steps, stay organised, and keep your goal in sight. If you want tailored guidance, document review, or end-to-end support, Afrovo is here to help Africans like you realise their dreams in Australia.

Contact us today for a free consultation, or explore our resources for more tips on skilled migration, student visas, and global opportunities. Your journey is our mission!