Migrate to Australia as a Plumber
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Australia has a critical shortage of Plumbers. If you are a qualified Plumber aged under 45 then you are eligible to migrate to Australia provided you can score 65 points and have a positive Skills Assessment.
How to Migrate to Australia as a Plumber
- 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
Criteria for Plumbers to Migrate to Australia
You need to meet the following criteria:
Score 65 Points
Plumbers 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
Plumbers 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.
Plumber Skills Assessment
A plumber skills assessment is an important step towards securing an Australian skilled visa. Plumbers in Australia are required to be licensed by the respective State licensing board before undertaking any plumbing work. Firstly, an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR) must be obtained through VETASSESS or ATTC (Australian Trade Training College). A plumber skills assessment happens in two stages:
Stage 1
Migration Consultant will work with you to prepare the necessary documentation for lodgement with VETASSESS or ATTC, who will review your training and employment evidence to ensure that you have either:
- 6 years employment experience as a Plumber with no formal training OR
- 4 years employment experience as a Plumber with relevant formal training
You will need to provide your qualification certificates as proof of formal training, and your employment evidence must include at least 12 months in the last 3 years. Evidence may include documents such as wage slips, bank statements, employment references, etc. Migration Consultant will advise you about what exactly is required and prepare these is readiness for assessment.
ASSESSMENT FEE: AUD$1,280
FIRST AID CERTIFICATE – Plumbers being assessed through Vetassess are required to obtain a Level 2 First Aid Certificate.
Stage 2
You will complete a Technical Interview and Practical Assessment. These take approximately 7-8 hours to complete.
During the Technical Interview you will be asked a series of questions about your skills and duties as a qualified Plumber. This is to determine the extent of your knowledge.
The Practical Assessment involves a series of work-based tasks that demonstrates your skills as a Plumber. These practical tasks are completed in the presence of a licensed Assessor.
The technical interview and practical tasks are based on the units listed in the Fact Sheet.
Migration Consultant will provide you with a detailed guide to the skills and duties that you will undertake during the practical.
ASSESSMENT FEE: AUD$4,200
Following a successful assessment, VETASSESS or ATTC will issue you with:
- Skills Assessment Outcome letter
- Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR)
Licensing
On arrival in Australia, you must apply through the State regulation body for a Provisional license. Once this license has been granted, you may work under the supervision of a fully licensed tradesperson. During this time you will be required to undertake additional training in order to gain the required Australian qualification that enables you to work independently.
** Please note that this ‘Gap Training’ can only be undertaken once in Australia.
What are the eligibility requirements for immigrating to Australia as a Plumber?
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 Plumbers in Australia?
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a popular choice for Plumbers 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 Plumbers seeking to immigrate to Australia. Unlike the subclass 189 visa the subclass 190 requires Plumbers to be nominated by an Australian state or territory government.
How do I get my Plumber skills assessed for Australian immigration purposes
The Australian assessing authority for Plumbers is Vetassess. They are responsible for evaluating your qualifications, experience and skills to ensure they meet Australian standards. For Plumbers, the assessment includes a review of your practical experience and any relevant certifications you hold.
Can I apply for permanent residency as a Plumber 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 Plumbers?
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 Plumber?
Yes! Your immediate family members are included.
What are the best places to look for work as a Plumber in Australia?
The best places to search for Plumber 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 Plumbers 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 Plumbers in residential construction and artisan woodworking.
Are there any specific websites or job boards focused on Plumber 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 Plumber positions across Australia.
Additionally, as a Migration Consultant LLC client you have access to our dedicated Plumber recruitment service for new migrants to Australia.
