My husband and I want to emigrate to Oz. But only 1 of us has the required skill set needed. Will that stop us emigrating?
Only one member of the "family unit" needs to qualify. They will be used as the main applicant on the visa application.
What is the procedure to obtain a job offer from Australia (my skills are already assessed)
You can fill in the skills matching portion of the form 47 when you make the application. You could also fly out there to be interviewed or you appoint a job finding agency. Some jobs are in hot demand and you would stand a chance of getting a position before you leave - other jobs will require you telling your employer "I can start on Monday" as you sit in his office with a valid visa in your passport. i.e. visa first - job second, is the way most people have to go.
I never did a formal apprenticeship but have a number of years experience working in my trade, how much more complicated does this make my case? Will this stop me getting into Australia?
An "experience only" or route C is a difficult case, but does not mean you are ineligible for emigration. You may like to take some advice before proceeding alone.
How do I get a Skills Assessment done? And are these assessments compulsory to work in Australia?
Yes - a Skills assessment is a prerequisite for every skilled visa. Option 1 - apply directly to the assessing body yourself. Option 2 – Appoint a Registered Agent to handle the application for you.
How much work experience do you need on top of a qualification to be able to emigrate to Australia?
You need a minimum of 6 months work experience IF you are doing one of the SIR Visas. Others would require 12 out of the last 18 months.
A previous firm I worked for does not exist anymore. Will this hold up my skills application?
This can be a hold up - and ultimately the cause of a refusal. Gathering other evidence is required. Such things as pay slips, letters of appointment, internal reviews, business cards all can add some weight. It is recommended to use a registered Migration Agent to help you with cases like this.
Do you have to apply to have my skills assessed before sending the general skilled application forms?
Yes. Your skills assessment must be included in your visa application form. Please do some serious research before sending in any applications - especially those where you have to pay a fee!
