VETASSESS has introduced several important updates in 2025 that affect both individual applicants and the firms preparing skills-assessment applications on their behalf. These amendments focus on procedural consistency, clearer documentary standards and revised fee structures. The following provides a concise summary of the changes that have shaped the assessment process this year.
Revised Fee Structure
From 22 October 2025, VETASSESS introduced an updated fee schedule for professional and general occupations. The revision applies to skills assessments, priority processing and related services. Trade occupations have not been included in this change. This fee adjustment requires updated budgeting and internal planning, particularly for firms managing multiple clients.
Updated Processing Timelines and Documentation Requirements
Effective 1 December 2025, VETASSESS implemented standardised processing timeframes. Skills assessments, reviews and reassessments are generally processed within seven weeks, while appeals may take up to twelve weeks.
The documentation requirements have also been strengthened. Applicants must now provide three forms of identification, including at least one government-issued photo ID. Where additional documents are requested, VETASSESS provides a 28-day window for submission. If evidence is not provided within this timeframe, applications may be finalised based on the material already on file. These changes reinforce the need for complete and accurate applications from the outset.
Skills Assessment Support (SAS) Portal Adjustments
The Skills Assessment Support service resumed bookings in late 2025. Certain accounts created between mid-2022 and September 2025 may require password resets, and older applications may not automatically appear in the updated portal. Both applicants and firms must ensure proper access before preparing or lodging new submissions to avoid delays.
Outcome Letter Updates
VETASSESS has updated outcome terminology to align with assessment standards. Results are now issued as “suitable” or “not suitable,” and outcome letters set out clearer validity periods and identity details. This improves consistency for subsequent migration processes and reduces ambiguity for applicants, employers and migration professionals.
Impact of These Changes on Skills-Assessment Applications
Overall, the 2025 updates create a more structured and predictable assessment environment. The standardised processing timeframe provides clearer expectations for planning visa applications, while the stricter documentation rules reduce the likelihood of incomplete submissions progressing. However, the 28-day response period places greater responsibility on applicants and representing firms to ensure documents are prepared in advance. The fee increase also affects budgeting, particularly for firms handling large volumes of assessments. With the SAS portal reinstated, applicants now have better access to support, provided they resolve any account-access issues early. These combined changes streamline the assessment process but also heighten the importance of accuracy, timeliness and organised case preparation.
