Move to Australia as a Fitter
(ANZSCO: 323211)
Australia’s demand for skilled trades has reached critical levels, and fitters are high on the list of sought-after professionals. If you’re a qualified fitter under the age of 45, this could be your opportunity to build a rewarding career in Australia. With the right preparation and understanding of the process, you can secure a skilled visa and embark on a new life Down Under.
Fitters play an essential role in maintaining and repairing machinery across various industries, including mining, construction, and manufacturing. As Australia continues to expand its infrastructure and industrial capacity, the need for qualified fitters has intensified.
This demand has led to the inclusion of fitters (ANZSCO Code: 323211) on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making migration pathways available through skilled visa programs.
Requirements to Migrate to Australia as a Fitter
- Be aged under 45
- Score 65 Australian Immigration Points
- Have a Positive Skills Assessment from Vetasses
- Lodge an Expression of Interest
- Receive an Invitation to Apply
- Pay the Visa Fees
- Pass Health and Character Checks
Australia Visa Options for Fitters
Fitters benefit from being on the MLTSSL, which provides access to multiple visa pathways:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
This permanent residency visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia without employer sponsorship.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory and grants permanent residency with the condition of residing in the nominating state for two years.
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
A provisional visa for those willing to work in regional areas, with a pathway to permanent residency after three years.
Skills Assessment for Fitters
The skills assessment is a crucial step in your migration journey. It verifies your qualifications, experience, and capability to work as a fitter in Australia. The process is administered by VETASSESS or Australian Construction Training Services (ACTS), both of which are approved by Trades Recognition Australia.
Stage 1: Documentary Assessment
This stage involves submitting evidence of your training and work history. Depending on your background, you must demonstrate one of the following:
- 5 years of employment experience as a fitter without formal training, OR
- 3 years of employment experience as a fitter with relevant formal training.
You’ll need to provide:
- Qualification certificates
- Employment references
- Pay slips and bank statements
- Tax returns or other proof of employment
Stage 2: Technical Interview
The technical interview assesses your practical knowledge and skills. Conducted via Skype, this two-hour session includes questions based on the competencies outlined in the trade fact sheet provided by the assessment body. Upon successful completion, you will receive:
- Skills Assessment Outcome Letter
- AQF Level 3 Fitter Certification
Australia Visa Options for a Fitter Relocating Down Under
Fitters benefit from being on the MLTSSL, which provides access to multiple visa pathways:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
This permanent residency visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia without employer sponsorship.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory and grants permanent residency with the condition of residing in the nominating state for two years.
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
A provisional visa for those willing to work in regional areas, with a pathway to permanent residency after three years.
Criteria for Fitters to Migrate to Australia
You need to meet the following criteria:
Score 65 Points
Fitters migrating to Australia need to score at least 65 Immigration points. Points are awarded for age, experience, qualifications, education, English language skills and time spent in Australia. Take this Free Visa Points Calculator for your score.
Skills Assessment
Fitters are required to complete a Skills Assessment through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA).
English Language
Good English skills are vital for work, so you may need to take a test like IELTS. UK and USA Passport holders are exempt.
Health and Character
You’ll need to pass health and character checks.
What are the eligibility requirements for immigrating to Australia as a Fitter?
Eligibility requirements include being aged under 45, scoring 65 points on the Australian Immigration Points Score, having the required skills, qualifications, and meeting health and character checks.
Which skilled migration visas are suitable for Fitters in Australia?
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a popular choice for Fitters who want to immigrate to Australia independently without the need for sponsorship by an Australian employer.
The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is another attractive option for Fitters seeking to immigrate to Australia. Unlike the subclass 189 visa the subclass 190 requires Fitters to be nominated by an Australian state or territory government.
How do I get my Fitter skills assessed for Australian immigration purposes
The Australian assessing authority for Fitters is Vetassess. They are responsible for evaluating your qualifications, experience and skills to ensure they meet Australian standards. For Fitters , the assessment includes a review of your practical experience and any relevant certifications you hold.
Can I apply for permanent residency as a Fitter in Australia?
Yes, the 189 and 190 visa subclass grants Permanent Residency to holders right from the start. The PR rights and privileges awarded to you also apply to your spouse / partner and any dependents.
What are the processing times for skilled migration visas for Fitters?
Expect the whole process to take between 7 and 16 months from absolute start of the visa process to the absolute end.
Can I include my family members in my immigration application as a Fitter?
Yes! Your immediate family members are included.
What are the best places to look for work as a Fitter in Australia?
The best places to search for Fitter jobs in Australia include major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. These cities have a great construction and lots of opportunities.
Suburban and rural areas are also excellent options for Fitters migrating to Australia because they have a lower cost of living and a better work life balance. Smaller communities may have a demand for skilled Fitters in residential construction and artisan woodworking.
Are there any specific websites or job boards focused on Fitter jobs in Australia?
Yes, you can use job search websites like Seek (www.seek.com.au) and Indeed (www.indeed.com.au).
These platforms list Fitter positions across Australia.
Additionally, as a Migration Consultant LLC client you have access to our dedicated Fitter recruitment service for new migrants to Australia.