How to Start Your Journey to Australia as a Skilled Migrant – Teacher

If you are a qualified teacher dreaming of working in Australia, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Australia has a high demand for skilled teachers in early childhood, primary, and secondary education. By applying for a Skilled Migrant Teacher Visa, you can enjoy a permanent move with job security, great pay, and a world-class lifestyle.

In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to migrate to Australia as a teacher, including visa options, requirements, and the application process.

Why Australia Needs Skilled Teachers

Across the country, schools are looking for experienced educators to fill key roles. This shortage means teachers are on the Australian Skilled Occupation List, making migration easier for qualified candidates.

As a teacher in Australia, you’ll enjoy:

• Competitive salaries (AUD $70,000–$100,000+)

• Paid school holidays

• Strong career growth opportunities

• Work-life balance in a safe, beautiful environment

Step 1: Check Skilled Teacher Visa Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet the Australian Skilled Migration requirements:

• Age: Under 45 years at the time of visa application

• English Proficiency: High score in IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL (IELTS 7.0 in each band is common for teachers)

• Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or higher in education

• Work Experience: At least 1–2 years of teaching experience

• Skills Assessment: Approval from the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL)

Step 2: Complete Your Skills Assessment (AITSL)

The AITSL skills assessment is a mandatory step for all teacher migration applicants. It verifies your academic qualifications and teaching experience against Australian standards.

You’ll need to submit:

• Degree certificates and transcripts

• Proof of teacher registration or licensing in your home country

• English test results

• Detailed employment references

A positive AITSL outcome allows you to move forward with your visa application.

Step 3: Choose the Right Teacher Visa for Australia

The main Skilled Migration Visa options for teachers include:

• Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

  • No employer or state sponsorship required

  • Permanent residency pathway

• Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

  • Requires state/territory nomination

  • Faster processing times in high-demand states

• Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

  • Work and live in regional Australia for 3 years before applying for PR

Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

After your skills assessment, submit your EOI through the Australian SkillSelect system. You’ll be scored on a points-based system considering:

• Age

• English level

• Skilled work experience

• Education

• State nomination

The higher your points, the sooner you may receive an invitation to apply for a visa.

Step 5: Lodge Your Skilled Teacher Visa Application

Once invited, you have 60 days to submit your visa application online. This includes:

• Paying the visa application fee

• Uploading all documents

• Completing medical and police checks

Step 6: Prepare for Life in Australia

While your visa is processing, start planning your move:

• Research teaching registration requirements for your state or territory

• Understand cost of living and housing options

• Network with other teachers in Australia through online groups

• Organize relocation and shipping arrangements

Step 7: Arrive and Start Teaching in Australia

After your visa is granted, register with the relevant State Teacher Registration Board and begin applying for teaching jobs.

Your Pathway to a New Life

Migrating to Australia as a skilled teacher may seem complex, but with the right support, it’s a clear and achievable process. From visa eligibility checks to AITSL assessments and EOI submissions, each step brings you closer to a rewarding teaching career in Australia.

📍 Need Expert Help With Your Skilled Teacher Visa?
At My Travel International, we guide teachers through every stage of the migration process – ensuring a smooth, stress-free journey to Australia.

Visit us: Khetias Building, 4th Floor, Eldoret
📞 Call: 0722622157
🌐 Website: www.mytravelinternational.co.ke