VETASSESS Implements Changes to Priority Processing Service

Publish Date: 20/07/2023

VETASSESS, the assessing authority for skilled migration to Australia, has announced significant changes to its Priority Processing service. Prospective applicants are encouraged that they submit their applications according to the updated priority processing guidelines, which will be in effect from July 31, 2023.

Under the revised system, applicants who have urgent reasons for seeking priority processing will be given precedence over others in the queue.

The following are considered urgent reasons:

1. Invitation from Department of Home Affairs or Australian State/Territory Government: Applicants who have received an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs or a government agency in Australia, which has an expiry date, will be eligible for priority processing.
2. Expiring Visa: Individuals whose current visa is set to expire within the next eight weeks and who are unable to obtain another visa will also be given priority.
3. Age-Related Factors: Applicants who are turning 33, 40, or 45 within the next eight weeks can apply for priority processing to ensure their age doesn't impact their visa eligibility.
4. Expiring English Test Result: Those whose English test results (IELTS or PTE) are expiring within eight weeks can also avail priority processing.
5. Expiring Partner Skills Assessment or English Test Result: Applicants with an expiring Partner Skills Assessment or English test result within eight weeks will be eligible for priority processing.

Applicants who do not fall under any of these urgent need categories can still apply for Priority Processing. However, once places are allocated to those with urgent needs, any remaining slots will be offered to other applicants on a first-come-first-served basis.