How to Apply for PR as a Joiner in Australia
- RACC Australia - Education and Migration Services
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
Joiners are in demand across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects, and with the right qualification, skills assessment, and work experience, this occupation may be eligible for multiple skilled and employer-sponsored visa pathways.
This guide explains the main requirements, including qualifications, Trade Recognition Australia (TRA) skills assessments, English language requirements, and visa options available to Joiners.
Qualifications Required for Joiners in Australia
To begin your migration journey, you must meet the qualification standards required for trade recognition.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
You will generally need:
AQF Certificate III or AQF Certificate IV in Joinery or a closely related trade qualification
Or an overseas trade qualification assessed as comparable to Australian standards
Work Experience Requirement
After completing your qualification, you will usually need to undertake on-the-job training and gain practical work experience. This is essential for most visa pathways, as it demonstrates your ability to perform skilled work at an Australian industry level.
Skills Assessment for Joiners (TRA)
A positive skills assessment is mandatory for most skilled and employer-sponsored visas. For Joiners, this is conducted through Trade Recognition Australia (TRA).
TRA Skills Assessment Pathways for Joiners
Job Ready Program (JRP): Designed for international student graduates who completed their trade qualification in Australia. After completing at least 12 months of relevant paid employment under the program, applicants may become eligible for skilled migration visas.
Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) Skills Assessment: Used for certain employer-sponsored visa applications to confirm your skills meet Australian standards
Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP): For applicants who obtained their skills and experience outside Australia.
Migration Skills Assessment (MSA): For experienced painters who meet TRA’s qualification and employment criteria.
English Language Requirements
You must meet English language requirements for most skilled and employer-sponsored visas.
Accepted tests include:
IELTS
PTE Academic
Other approved English language tests
Most applicants must demonstrate at least Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent), but the exact English requirement will depend on the visa you apply for, as some skilled or state-nominated visas may require higher scores. Higher English scores may increase your points for skilled migration.
Visa Options for Joiners
Joiners are listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), meaning you may be eligible for the following visa pathways:
Skilled Migration Visas
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
Subclass 190 – State sponsored Skilled Nominated Visa
Subclass 491 – State sponsored Regional Skilled Work Visa
Employer-Sponsored Visas
Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand Visa (Core Skills Stream and Labour Agreement)
Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa
Subclass 407 – Training Visa
Points Test and Invitation Rounds
Skilled migration visas operate on a points-based system. Points are awarded based on factors such as:
Age
English language level
Skilled work experience
Qualifications
Australian study
State or regional nomination
Recent invitation rounds have included Joiners from around 65 points, although this can change depending on demand, quotas, and government priorities.
How to Apply for PR as a Joiner in Australia
Understanding how to apply for PR as a Joiner in Australia starts with the right qualification, followed by a successful TRA skills assessment, meeting English requirements, and selecting the most suitable visa pathway.
If you are a Joiner and want to understand your PR options clearly, book a consultation with our migration team to get professional advice that can help you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
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