Australia has long been a land of opportunity for skilled professionals worldwide. With its booming economy, multicultural society, and high quality of life, it continues to attract talent across diverse industries.
One of the essential steps in achieving permanent residency (PR) in Australia is undergoing a skills assessment by a relevant assessing authority.
This responsibility falls on the Institute of Managers and Leaders Australia and New Zealand (IML ANZ) for managers, executives, and business professionals.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the IML ANZ skill assessment—what it is, how it works, who needs it, and why it’s crucial for your Australian migration journey.
This article is the resource you need, whether you’re a business manager, CEO, sales director, or corporate services manager.
What is IML ANZ?
The Institute of Managers and Leaders Australia and New Zealand (IML ANZ) is a not-for-profit body for management and leadership professionals.
It has a rich history of supporting leaders for over 80 years and offers leadership resources, accreditation, and membership pathways.
In Australian skilled migration, IML ANZ is the designated assessing authority for various management-related occupations under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).
Understanding IML ANZ Skill Assessment
The IML ANZ skills assessment is a critical step for professionals who wish to migrate to Australia under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) or employer-sponsored visa programs.
The assessment verifies that your qualifications and professional experience align with Australian standards for the occupation you’re applying for.
The assessment evaluates:
- Managerial competency
- Work experience
- Educational qualifications
- Leadership capabilities
In short, it answers the question: “Is this applicant qualified to work in their nominated occupation in Australia?”
Occupations Assessed by IML ANZ
IML ANZ assesses a range of managerial occupations listed on the MLTSSL and STSOL. Common occupations include:
- Chief Executive or Managing Director (ANZSCO 111111)
- Corporate General Manager (ANZSCO 111211)
- Sales and Marketing Manager (ANZSCO 131112)
- Advertising Manager (ANZSCO 131113)
- Human Resource Manager (ANZSCO 132311)
- Finance Manager (ANZSCO 132211)
- Construction Project Manager (ANZSCO 133111)
- Customer Service Manager (ANZSCO 149212)
Each occupation has specific responsibilities and requirements, so it’s essential to select the correct ANZSCO code that matches your experience.
Why is the IML ANZ Skill Assessment Important?
A successful IML ANZ skills assessment is often a mandatory requirement before you can apply for an Australian skilled visa. Here’s why it holds immense importance:
a. Gateway to Skilled Migration
It’s the first and most essential step toward your Australian PR application as a manager or leader.
b. Validates Your Credentials
It assures the Australian government that your skills, education, and experience meet national standards.
c. Required for Visa Lodgement
Without a positive skills assessment outcome, you cannot proceed with your visa application under skilled migration streams.
d. Professional Recognition
It enhances your professional profile and increases your employability in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria for IML ANZ Assessment
To be eligible for the IML skills assessment, applicants generally must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum three years of relevant managerial experience in the past five years.
- Relevant qualifications (typically a Bachelor’s degree or higher).
- Demonstrated strategic leadership and management experience.
- Evidence of decision-making authority, staff supervision, and budget control.
Required Documents for IML ANZ Migration Skills Assessment
Proper documentation is the backbone of a successful assessment. You’ll need to submit:
- Passport copy
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume
- Qualification certificates and transcripts
- Employment reference letters
- Position descriptions
- Organisational chart highlighting your role
- Skills Assessment Summary Statement
Your documents must be in English or accompanied by certified translations.
IML ANZ Skill Assessment Process: Step-by-Step
Here’s how the IML ANZ assessment works:
Step 1: Choose Your Occupation
Select an ANZSCO occupation code that accurately reflects your experience.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Collect all necessary documents as per IML ANZ’s checklist.
Step 3: Submit Application
Apply online through the IML portal and pay the assessment fee.
Step 4: Assessment Review
IML will assess your qualifications and experience, typically within 8-10 weeks.
Step 5: Outcome Letter
Receive your Skills Assessment Outcome Letter (positive or negative).
IML ANZ Skill Assessment Fees
Fees may vary based on the type of application and processing time. As of 2025, the indicative pricing includes:
- Standard Application Fee: AUD $575 – $825
- Priority Processing (if available): Additional charges may apply
Always refer to the official IML ANZ website for up-to-date fee structures.
Assessment Outcome and Validity
- A positive skills assessment confirms you meet the Australian standards for the occupation.
- The outcome letter is valid for 3 years from the date of issue.
- A negative assessment may include feedback and an option for reassessment or appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants fail due to minor errors. Avoid the following:
- Choosing the wrong ANZSCO code
- Insufficient or irrelevant work experience
- Poorly written employment reference letters
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
- Not addressing leadership and managerial responsibilities.
Tips to Increase Chances of a Positive Skills Assessment
- Customise your resume and references to highlight managerial duties.
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when writing your summary statement.
- Include quantitative achievements, such as KPIS or budget management.
- Seek help from migration consultants or professional writers if unsure.
- Align your job duties closely with the ANZSCO role description.
Role of IML ANZ in Skilled Migration to Australia
As an official assessing authority, IML ANZ plays a critical role in the Australian migration process. It:
- Sets professional standards for management-level occupations
- Ensures only qualified professionals migrate
- Helps the government address skills shortages
- Builds a credible workforce in leadership roles
IML ANZ ensures that only competent, experienced, and ethical leaders are granted migration rights, thereby protecting the local economy and labour market.
IML ANZ and Australian PR Pathways
Once you receive a positive skills assessment from IML ANZ, you can apply for the following visa subclasses:
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa)
- Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)
- Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa)
- Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa)
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
A positive IML ANZ assessment opens doors not just for permanent residency but also for state nomination, regional opportunities, and employer sponsorships.
Conclusion
The IML ANZ skill assessment is more than a formality; it’s your ticket to a prosperous career in Australia as a recognised leader or manager. By ensuring your skills and experience match Australian standards, IML ANZ helps you take the first critical step in your migration journey.
With a positive assessment in hand, you’re not only eligible to apply for PR visas but also positioned for success in Australia’s competitive professional landscape.
So, if you’re a seasoned business professional or manager aspiring to migrate, don’t delay. Start your IML ANZ migration skills assessment today and move one step closer to a new life Down Under.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
1. How long does the IML ANZ skills assessment take?
It usually takes between 8 to 10 weeks, depending on application volume and complexity.
2. Can I apply for multiple ANZSCO codes?
No, each application is assessed against one nominated occupation. Choose the most accurate match.
3. Is a professional year required for IML ANZ?
No, but relevant qualifications and managerial experience are mandatory.
4. What if my assessment is negative?
You can either request a review or submit a fresh application after addressing the gaps highlighted.
