How to Become a UI/UX Designer in Australia and Apply for Permanent Residency

RACC Australia - Education and Migration Services
Jul 18
3 min read

Learn how to become a UI/UX Designer in Australia, including qualifications, skills assessments, visa pathways, and PR options.

UI/UX Designers are in demand in Australia's growing digital and tech sectors. To pursue this career and secure permanent residency, there are specific qualifications, skills assessments, and visa pathways you need to know about. In this guide, we'll cover the key requirements to become a UI/UX Designer in Australia and the steps to apply for permanent residency (PR).

Qualifications Required to Become a UI/UX Designer in Australia

To work as a UI/UX Designer in Australia, you’ll typically need a formal qualification at AQF Bachelor degree or higher in a relevant field. Popular courses include Design, Digital Media, Graphic Design, Multimedia Design, or Interaction Design.

Your degree must meet Australian standards and is usually assessed by VETASSESS for skilled migration purposes. If you don’t have a formal qualification, at least five years of relevant work experience may be accepted as an alternative pathway.

Skills Assessment for UI/UX Designer

One of the key requirements for migration to Australia as a UI/UX Designer is passing a skills assessment. This process is conducted by VETASSESS and evaluates whether your qualifications and work experience meet the standards set for the UI/UX Designer occupation in Australia.

For overseas qualifications, a skills assessment ensures that your education and experience align with Australian industry standards. If you pass the skills assessment, you can move forward with the visa application process.

English Language Requirements

While VETASSESS itself does not require an English test, most migration pathways do. The Department of Home Affairs accepts a range of English tests, including: IELTS, PTE, and many others. Achieving a higher level of English, such as Proficient or Superior, can help increase your overall points for skilled migratio

Visa Pathways for UI/UX Designers

The occupation UI/UX Designer comes under Web Designer (ANZSCO 232414) is listed on both the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL), making it eligible for a wide range of skilled and employer-sponsored visa programs.

Skilled Migration Visas:

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa A permanent residency visa for individuals nominated by a state or territory government.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa A provisional visa for individuals willing to live and work in regional Australia, with the option to apply for permanent residency after three years.

Employer-Sponsored Visas:

Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa A temporary visa for workers sponsored by an employer. This visa is available under the Skills in Demand stream and includes UI/UX Designers.
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa A permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an employer.
Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa A provisional visa for workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
Subclass 407 – Training Visa For individuals seeking to improve their skills through training in Australia.

Application Process Summary

The application process for becoming a UI/UX Designer in Australia typically involves the following steps:

Complete a skills assessment through VETASSESS or the relevant authority.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect to let the Australian government know you're interested in applying.
Once invited, apply for the visa (482 TSS, 186 ENS, 190, or 491).
Submit supporting documents such as English language proficiency and skills assessment results.

How to Become UI/UX Designer in Australia with RACC

If you’re serious about becoming a UI/UX Designer in Australia, now is the time to get expert guidance, RACC Migration and Education Services is here to help. Our registered migration team can guide you through the process. Whether you are just starting out or already have overseas qualifications, we can assist with: