For Europeans building a future in Australia

Migrating from Europe to Australia

No two European qualification systems map onto the Australian framework the same way. A German Meister, a French licence professionnelle and an Italian laurea all get assessed differently, so we start every European case by working out how yours will land.

European nationals migrate to Australia across a wide range of skilled occupations, and the Australian migration system has clear pathways for European applicants with trade qualifications, engineering degrees, healthcare credentials, and professional qualifications.

The pathway for European applicants depends on nationality (Working Holiday eligibility varies), occupation, English proficiency, and whether employer sponsorship is available. Most European applicants pursue the skills assessment route into the points-tested stream.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR EUROPEAN APPLICANTS

Working Holiday eligibility: citizens of Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and the UK are eligible for Working Holiday visas (subclass 417 or 462 depending on nationality). Check current eligibility at the Department of Home Affairs.

English language: most European applicants need to demonstrate English language proficiency via IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or an equivalent test. Citizens of certain countries may be exempt. Confirm at consultation.

Skills assessment: European trade qualifications and professional degrees are assessed by the relevant Australian authority. Outcomes vary by country and by occupation.

Points scores: European applicants who score well on IELTS/PTE and have relevant skilled employment generally achieve competitive points scores.

STEPS FOR EUROPEAN APPLICANTS

Step 1 Confirm Working Holiday eligibility if you want to test the Australian market first

Step 2 Confirm your occupation on the skilled occupation list and the relevant assessing authority

Step 3 Complete an English language test if required

Step 4 Obtain a skills assessment

Step 5 Lodge an EOI in SkillSelect and assess state nomination options

Step 6 Receive an invitation and lodge the visa application

Speak to a Migration agent

Call 1300 VISA OZ (1300 8472 69) to discuss employer sponsorship for your Brisbane business. Available Monday to Friday. Zoom consultations take 45-60 minutes and give you a clear answer on what is achievable.

Prefer to start in writing? Email info@migrationburo.com.au with the role title, the occupation, and the candidate's nationality and qualifications.

Skills in Demand (SID) Visa

(Subclass 482)
Custom migration pathways for businesses facing ongoing skills shortages, including DAMA’s, industry-specific Labour agreements and Company Specific Labour Agreements.

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Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)

Secure permanent residency for skilled international employees, strengthening your workforce with long-term expertise.

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Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)
This visa provides a way for skilled workers in specific occupations, who are nominated by their employer in regional Australia, to live and work in Australia for 5 years. This visa contains two ‘streams’ with varying conditions and eligibility requirements. Click below to learn more, and contact us for professional advice and assistance.

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Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa (Subclass 400)

The Subclass 400 visa allows individuals with highly specialised skills to undertake short-term, non-ongoing work or projects in Australia..

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Your Australian Visa application

Some frequently asked questions

Answers to some questions we often hear from people in your situation.

Which European nationalities are eligible for a Working Holiday visa?

Many, but not all. Check the current list on the Department of Home Affairs website. The 417 and 462 both apply depending on nationality.

Is a German or French engineering degree recognised in Australia?

Generally yes, via Engineers Australia. The assessment process requires documentation of degree content, academic transcripts, and employment references.

Do I need to do an IELTS test if I speak English well?

You still need to meet the formal English language requirement for most visa subclasses. Academic or professional English qualifications from certain countries may satisfy the requirement without an IELTS test.

Can a sponsored worker's family come to Australia with them?

Yes. Partners and dependent children can be included in the application as secondary applicants. Each secondary applicant is subject to health and character requirements. Partners may work full-time. Secondary applicants are named in the visa grant and subject to the same conditions as the primary holder.

What is the difference between a 482 and a 186 visa?

The 482 (Skills in Demand) is a temporary visa, typically granted for two to four years. The 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) is permanent residence. Many 482 holders transition to a 186 after two years of employment with the same employer under the Temporary Residence Transition stream. The 186 can also be lodged directly via the Direct Entry stream if the worker holds the right qualifications and the role meets the criteria.

Migration experience you can trust

MigrationBuro are your trusted migration agents in Brisbane. Founded and led by Andrew Heathcote, we specialise in Australian immigration services. With over 18 years of experience, Andrew is a registered migration agent (MARN) and a member of the Migration Institute of Australia, ensuring expert guidance through every step of the immigration process.

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