Visa documents and correspondence all arrive in English. Knowing the recurring terms in advance makes both the consultation and the assessment process much easier.
- ANZSCOOccupation classification
- The occupation classification system used jointly by Australia and New Zealand. The code you apply under determines the qualifications and experience required and which visas are available, which is why it is the first thing settled in any migration plan.
- Skills AssessmentSkills assessment
- The process by which a designated authority assesses whether you hold the qualifications and experience for your chosen occupation code. A different authority handles each occupation, and assessment can take several months.
- EOIExpression of Interest
- Registering your score and details in SkillSelect. An EOI is not itself a visa application; you must receive an invitation before you can apply.
- Points TestPoints test
- The assessment method that converts age, English language ability, work experience, qualifications, partner attributes and state nomination into points and totals them. The central gate for skilled visas.
- NominationNomination
- The process by which an employer or state government nominates a particular applicant or position. It is a separate application from the visa, and if the nomination is refused the visa cannot proceed.
- LMTLabour Market Testing
- The requirement to advertise a position in a prescribed way to demonstrate that an attempt was made to fill it from within Australia. There are conditions on the medium, duration and content of the advertising.
- Bridging VisaBridging visa
- A temporary visa granted for the assessment period where you lodge your next application before your current visa expires. Work and travel rights differ by type, so the conditions need checking.
- Condition 8503No Further Stay
- A visa carrying this condition prevents you from applying for another visa within Australia. A waiver can be sought, but the grounds are strictly applied.
- Schedule 3Schedule 3 criteria
- Additional criteria that apply to an onshore application made while you are unlawful. They are only waived where exceptional circumstances are accepted.
- PIC 4020False or misleading information
- A ground of refusal that applies where false or misleading information or documents were provided during an application. Where it applies, further applications are barred for a period.
- ARTAdministrative Review Tribunal
- The body that reviews visa refusal and cancellation decisions made by the Department. It replaced the former AAT in October 2024, and applications are subject to strict time limits.
- RFIRequest for Information
- A notice from the case officer requesting further material needed to decide the case. There is a deadline to respond, and if you do not, a decision is made on the material already held.
