Unpacking the Australian 189 Visa for UK Electricians

Australia has long been a dream destination for UK electricians looking for a better lifestyle, higher wages, and exciting career opportunities. With a booming construction industry and a massive demand for skilled tradespeople, the Land Down Under is calling for electricians to fill the gaps.

But making the move isn’t as simple as booking a flight. To work legally as an electrician in Australia, you’ll need to get the right visa. The best option? The 189 Skilled Independent Visa. It’s your golden ticket to permanent residency and the freedom to work anywhere in Australia without the need for an employer sponsor.

This guide breaks down everything UK electricians need to know to get that visa and start a new life in Australia. From qualifications and skills assessments to application tips and job-hunting, we’ve got you covered.

Subclass 189 – Skilled Migration for UK Electricians

The 189 Visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia. Unlike other visas, you don’t need an employer or state sponsorship—it’s completely independent.

In terms of Australian Visas, the 189 sits at the top of the tree. Only certain occupations are eligible to apply for the subclass 189, and UK electricians are one of them.

The 189 Visa allows you to:

Understanding ANZSCO Codes for Electricians

The Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) is a system that classifies occupations based on skill levels and specializations. Each occupation is assigned a unique six-digit code, which is crucial for visa applications, skills assessments, and job classifications in Australia.

ANZSCO Codes Relevant to Electricians

For electricians, the primary ANZSCO codes are:

• 341111 – Electrician (General): This code pertains to professionals who install, test, connect, commission, maintain, and modify electrical equipment, wiring, and control systems. Registration or licensing is typically required for this role.​
• 341112 – Electrician (Special Class): This classification is for electricians who service and repair intricate and complex electrical and electronic circuitry. Specialized skills and, often, additional certifications are necessary.
• 341113 – Lift Mechanic: This code covers those who design, install, maintain, service, and repair electric and hydraulic passenger and freight lifts, escalators, moving walkways, and related equipment.

Why ANZSCO Codes Matter for UK Electricians

When UK electricians consider migrating to Australia, understanding and aligning with the correct ANZSCO code is vital for several reasons:

Skills Assessment: Before applying for visas like the 189 Skilled Independent Visa, electricians must undergo a skills assessment. This assessment evaluates whether your qualifications and experience match Australian standards for the occupation specified by the ANZSCO code. For electricians, this assessment is conducted by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA).​

Visa Application: The ANZSCO code determines eligibility for various visa subclasses. For instance, the 341111 – Electrician (General) code is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making it eligible for the 189 Skilled Independent Visa.

Key 189 Visa Requirements for UK Electricians

To qualify for the 189 Visa, you’ll need to meet certain criteria:

• Be under 45 years old at the time of application.
• Score at least 65 points on the points test
• Have your skills assessed by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA).
• Meet health and character requirements
• UK Citizens do not need to prove their English proficiency.

Skills Assessment for UK Electricians

Every Electrician emigrating to Australia must pass the ‘Skills Assessment’ process prior to arriving in Australia. This mandatory 3 Stage process includes Paperwork, Technical Interview and Practical Assessment (which takes place in the UK). The purpose of Skills Assessment is a) to ensure your skills meet Australian Standards and b) the award of the OTSR – which is equivalent to Certificate III in Electrotechnology in Australia.

This award lets you work as an Electrician from the day of your arrival in Australia on a Provisional License. During the first 6 months in Australia you’ll be working towards your A-Grade Independent Electrical License by completing your Australian GAP Context Training.

One of the standout benefits of registering with Electrician Australia is our free assistance with visa applications, including the subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) visa—when you use our services to complete your skills assessment.