Processing times

We aim to assess your skills assessment application as quickly as possible. However, processing times are estimates only and may vary due to:

• The type of assessment
• The number of applications received
• Public holidays and our end-of-year office closure**

We will review your application within 10 business days of submission to check if it is complete. If documents are missing or we need more information, this may delay your application.

Applications are processed in the order they are received. You can request urgent processing if you meet certain conditions. 

Urgent requests

We may prioritise your application if:

• Your visa is expiring within 20 business days
• You have received a formal invitation from the Department of Home Affairs or a state/territory government with a deadline
• You are close to reaching the age limit for visa eligibility

To request urgent processing, you must:

• Provide evidence from the Department of Home Affairs
• Explain why you could not apply earlier

There is no extra fee for urgent processing if your request meets these conditions.

Application status

You can check your application status anytime through the Migration Online portal.

Fees and estimated processing times

Fee increases for the 2026-2027 financial year

From 1 July 2026, our migration skills assessment fees will increase by an average of approximately 2%. These increases are broadly consistent with recent CPI movements, with individual application costs rising by $5 per item. Fees have been reviewed and approved in accordance with Guiding Principles and Standards for Skilled Migration Assessing Authorities. Applications received before 1 July 2026 will be charged at current rates. You can view the new fees in the tables below:

*Skilled employment assessment is only available if you have received a suitable qualification assessment outcome from CA ANZ.

Note: CA ANZ full members do not need to pay the migration skills assessment fee. If you are eligible, your invoice will show a $0 fee.

How to pay

You can pay in Australian dollars (AUD) using:

• Visa
• Mastercard
• American Express
• BPAY

Make sure your daily limit and available funds are enough to cover the fee.

Refund policy

If you withdraw your application:

• An administrative fee will apply in all cases
• If we have already started or completed your application, no refund will be issued

Disclaimer

The content on this website is provided for general information purposes and may not take into account detail that could be significant in your particular context. The website and its content is not a substitute for reading and understanding (as applicable) the Chartered Accountants ANZ’s Member Handbook, constitutional documents, legislation, regulations, professional guidelines or other applicable laws, or where necessary, obtaining specific advice regarding a specific issue.