If you have worked abroad in a trade or technical role and are considering moving to Australia, you may be asking yourself — Will my international experience count for my TRA skill assessment? The answer is yes, they mostly do. Yet, there are (few) conditions under which your offshore work may be recognised and some documentation requirement(s).

How​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Overseas Experience Is Considered

Yes, overseas experience may be taken into account during a TRA skills assessment if it is relevant, well-documented and meets the standards of Australia. This experience will be highly valued if you have worked in countries where the trade systems and equipment are the same or similar to those used in Australia.

In assessing your overseas experience, TRA considers the following:

Length of work: Generally, your experience in the trade should be for several years in the same or a closely related area.

Connection with the chosen occupation: The work performed should be in line with the Australian standards for the respective trade.

Practice of skills: You have to prove that you have been directly involved in the execution of the key functions of the job, rather than just supervision or management.

Confirmation and support: References, payslips, employer letters and photos of your work are some of the most important pieces of evidence.

The main point is to convince the authorities that your skills are at the same level as those of an Australian-qualified tradesperson.

Combining​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ your Overseas and Local Experience

You will have an advantage in your TRA assessment application if you have been employed in Australia. Candidates who can show that they have both domestic and foreign education and training typically do better. Because it demonstrates their adaptability and a basic understanding of Australian workplace culture.

You are still acceptable, though, if you have only worked abroad and you have the appropriate documentation and employment records. Some candidates require additional steps, such as a technical interview, to confirm their skill level.

Final

The good news is that overseas work experience can count for a TRA skill assessment, as long as it is well-proven and applies to your trade. The evaluation acknowledges the validity of established, practical experience, regardless of where it is acquired, as long as it conforms with Australian safety and performance standards.