Engineers Australia’s Verification Procedures
Engineers Australia (EA), as the designated assessing authority for engineering qualifications and work experience in Australia, maintains robust verification processes to ensure the integrity of all Migration Skills Assessment (MSA) applications. A common question among applicants is whether EA actively cross-examines claimed work experience with the respective employers. The short answer is yes—but the process is more nuanced than many applicants realize.
Our team at CDR Report has guided thousands of engineering professionals through this process, and we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide based on actual cases and official EA protocols.
The Verification Framework: How EA Examines Your Work Claims
Engineers Australia employs a multi-layered approach to verify employment claims. This framework has evolved over the years to combat fraudulent applications while ensuring genuine applicants receive fair assessment.
Primary Verification Methods
EA utilizes several methods to validate your employment history:
- Documentation Scrutiny: Detailed examination of submitted work references, payslips, and tax documents
- Direct Employer Contact: Random telephone or email verification with listed employers
- Third-party Checks: Cross-referencing with immigration and taxation authorities when necessary
- Technical Consistency Analysis: Evaluation of whether claimed responsibilities align with qualification level and career progression
Verification Intensity by Application Type
The intensity of verification varies based on several factors:
| Application Type | Verification Level | Common Verification Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Standard MSA | Moderate | Document examination, occasional employer contact |
| Fast-track | Moderate | Similar to standard but expedited |
| Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) | High | Document examination, employer contact, technical consistency analysis |
| Temporary Graduate 485 Visa | Moderate to High | Document examination, possible employer contact |
| Professional Engineer Registration | Very High | All available methods, including direct employer verification |
Documentation Requirements: What EA Expects
Engineers Australia requires specific documentation to substantiate employment claims. These documents serve as the foundation for their verification process.
Essential Documentation
To ensure smooth verification, applicants must provide:
- Reference Letters: On company letterhead, signed by an authorized person, containing detailed job descriptions
- Supporting Evidence: Payslips (first and last month of employment period), tax returns, provident fund statements
- Contract Documentation: Employment contracts showing terms, duration, and position details
- Organization Charts: Showing your position within the company hierarchy (when available)
Common Documentation Pitfalls
Our experience working with numerous clients has highlighted several recurring issues that trigger deeper verification:
- Inconsistencies between reference letters and other documents
- Generic job descriptions that lack technical specificity
- Missing contact information for supervisors or HR departments
- Gaps in supporting financial evidence
- Vague project descriptions that don’t align with claimed responsibilities
