If you’re an experienced tradesperson looking to migrate to Australia, you might be wondering:
“Can I still apply for a skills assessment without a formal trade qualification?”
The answer is YES — thanks to the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process and the skills assessment pathways offered by ACTS Visa Skills.
Here’s how it works, what’s required, and how you can turn your years of experience into a recognised trade outcome in Australia — even without a certificate in hand.
✅ Understanding Skills Assessment Without a Qualification
Australia’s immigration system values hands-on experience just as much as formal education — especially in the trades. That’s where the RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) pathway comes in.
ACTS Visa Skills is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that partners with Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) to assess trade skills. They assess your practical experience, knowledge, and ability, not just what’s on paper.
So, if you don’t have a formal trade qualification, but you’ve worked in your trade for at least 5 years, you may still be eligible for a skills assessment through ACTS Visa Skills.
🎯 Who This Applies To
You can apply without a formal trade certificate if you:
- Have substantial hands-on experience in a skilled trade (usually 5+ years)
- Can provide solid evidence of your work history
- Want to obtain a Certificate III in your trade via RPL
🔧 Common Trades That Can Be Assessed Without a Qualification
ACTS Visa Skills supports many trades, including (but not limited to):
- Diesel Mechanic
- Metal Fabricator / Welder
- Cabinet Maker
- Engineering – Mechanical Trade
- Engineering – Fixed and Mobile Plant
- Fitter and Turner
- Light Vehicle Mechanic
- Heavy Vehicle Mechanic
- Panel Beater
Each trade has its own units of competency that you’ll be assessed against — matching Australian standards.
📋 What You’ll Need Instead of a Qualification
Even without a trade certificate, you must prove your skills through evidence and assessment. Here’s what ACTS Visa Skills typically looks for:
1. Employment Evidence
- Detailed employer references
- Payslips or wage records
- Tax documents
- Work contracts
- Bank statements showing wage deposits
2. Self-Employment Documents (if applicable)
- Business registration
- Invoices and receipts
- Client references
- Photos of your work
- Equipment purchase records
3. Proof of Practical Skills
- Photos or videos of you doing trade work
- Job cards, maintenance logs, service reports
- Tool lists
- Safety documentation (e.g. SWMS, JSA)
4. Resume / CV
- Detailed, accurate timeline of your employment history and responsibilities
🧪 What’s the Assessment Process Like?
If you apply without a qualification, your assessment will follow the RPL + Technical Interview route. This may include:
- Document Review – ACTS reviews your evidence.
- Technical Interview – You’ll speak with a qualified assessor who will ask questions about your trade knowledge and experience.
If successful, you’ll receive an Australian Certificate III in your trade — which is your recognised qualification for visa purposes.
🛠️ Why Choose ACTS Visa Skills?
- TRA-approved RTO for skills assessments
- Specialists in offshore and RPL pathways
- Understands the needs of migrants without formal trade education
- Provides clear guidance through every step of the process
Yes — you can absolutely apply without a formal trade qualification, as long as you have the right experience and supporting evidence. ACTS Visa Skills makes it possible for experienced tradespeople to get the recognition they deserve, even if they learned their trade on the job.
If you’re ready to turn your experience into an Australian trade qualification and visa opportunity, ACTS can help guide you there.
