Skills Assessment Authority
OCANZ
Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand
OCANZ assesses optometrists for Australian skilled migration through the Competency in Optometry Examination, an examination pathway rather than a documentary assessment. Visa Plan Lawyers prepares OCANZ applications and advises on eligibility and the examination requirements.
Assessment Fees
$447 to $4,722 AUD by component
Competency in Optometry Examination fees are per component: application forms $447 to $868; written examination $3,534; skills examination $2,863; patient examination $4,722; cultural safety training $291. Fees effective 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2027.
Processing Time
Form 2 eligibility review about 4 weeks; Form 3 about 8 weeks; examinations scheduled separately in Melbourne.
Official Website
www.ocanz.orgOccupations assessed by OCANZ
Optometrist (ANZSCO 251411), the primary occupation assessed by OCANZ.
Key Occupations
Optometrist
Always verify the designated assessing authority for your specific ANZSCO occupation code on the Department of Home Affairs skilled occupation list before applying.
Assessment requirements
Examination pathway, not documentary
This is an examination pathway rather than a documentary assessment. The skills assessment is obtained by passing the Competency in Optometry Examination conducted by OCANZ.
Examination components
The examination has written and clinical components. The clinical examination splits into a skills examination and a patient examination, and there is mandatory cultural safety training in addition to the examinations.
Eligibility and degree listing
Eligibility requires a four-year degree, or a three-year degree plus one year of supervised practice. The degree must be listed in the OCANZ appendix of recognised qualifications.
Validity
The skills assessment is valid for three years from the date of issue. Applicants should lodge their visa application within that period.
Why Visa Plan for your skill assessment with OCANZ?
Occupation confirmation
We confirm the correct CSOL occupation title and the designated assessing authority for your specific role before you apply, avoiding the cost of an incorrect application.
Application preparation
A complete, well-prepared application reduces the risk of delay or adverse outcome. We advise on documentation requirements, employment reference content, and how to present your qualifications and experience.
Migration strategy
A positive skills assessment is a prerequisite, not a migration plan. We build your complete migration strategy from the assessment through to visa grant or permanent residence.
Reviewed by Visa Plan Migration Lawyers · Last updated: June 2026 · Assessment fee and processing time information is approximate and subject to change. Always verify current fees and processing times directly with OCANZ at https://www.ocanz.org before applying. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Visa Plan for advice specific to your circumstances.