Institute of Managers and Leaders (IML)

What is Institute of Managers and Leaders?

The Institute of Managers and Leaders (IML), also known as IML ANZ, is the peak professional body representing managers and leaders across Australia and New Zealand. Established to develop and advance management and leadership standards, IML plays a crucial role in the Australian skilled migration system by providing independent skills assessments.

IML's assessment function is recognized by the Department of Home Affairs as a designated skills assessing authority. The body assesses management and leadership qualifications against Australian professional standards, ensuring that international professionals seeking to migrate to Australia meet the competency requirements for senior and middle-management roles.

IML assessments cover a diverse range of occupations in the management and professional services sectors, including executive roles, human resources management, sales and marketing management, training and development, supply chain management, and related professional positions. The organization's assessment framework is based on competency standards and industry best practice.

Which visas require an IML skills assessment?

IML assessments are required for skilled migration visa applications in management and leadership occupations. These include several primary skilled visa subclasses for both permanent and temporary migration pathways.

An IML skills assessment confirms that your management qualifications and professional experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. This assessment is a mandatory requirement for most skilled visa applications—you cannot lodge a visa without a positive assessment. The assessment outcome is valid for three years from the date of issue.

How IML assessment works

The IML assessment process is straightforward and competency-focused. Your application is evaluated against Australian professional standards for your nominated management occupation through a structured assessment pathway.

1. Submit your completed IML application form with supporting documentation and payment of AUD 595
2. IML verifies your application is complete and formally begins processing
3. Your educational qualifications are verified with issuing institutions and evaluated against Australian standards
4. Your professional work experience is assessed for relevance to the nominated occupation and depth of management responsibility
5. IML evaluates your overall competency against the occupational standards for your nominated management role
6. An assessment outcome is issued—either positive (competent), qualified positive, or not yet competent
7. You receive your detailed assessment report by email, typically within 8–12 weeks

Assessment pathways

IML offers streamlined assessment pathways depending on your qualifications and professional background. The appropriate pathway depends on your educational credentials, work experience, and whether you meet the standard or alternative competency route.

Documents required

Documents required vary by pathway but typically include:

• Certified copies of all educational qualifications (bachelor's degree or higher in business, management, HR, or related field)
• Certified official transcripts from each educational institution attended
• Current resume or curriculum vitae detailing work experience and management responsibilities
• Statutory declaration describing your management duties, team size, budget responsibility, and key responsibilities in current and recent roles
• Employment reference letters on company letterhead from current or recent employers confirming your management role and experience
• Copies of performance appraisals, employment contracts, or job descriptions showing management responsibilities
• Proof of professional membership (if member of IML or related professional bodies)
• Copy of your passport biography page or national identification document
• Completed IML application form signed and dated
• Evidence of English language proficiency if your qualifications are not from an English-speaking country
• Payment receipt or evidence of fee payment (AUD 595)

All documents must be certified copies or originals submitted for verification. Documents not in English must be accompanied by certified English translations prepared by a NAATI-accredited translator. Ensure references are specific about your management duties, team size, and decision-making authority.

IML assessment fees

Assessment outcomes

IML issues one of three outcomes:

IML offers a formal review process if you disagree with the assessment outcome. Review requests must be submitted within 30 days and incur a separate fee. The review is conducted by a different assessor using the same competency standards and criteria.

Occupations assessed by IML

IML is the nominated assessing authority for the following ANZSCO occupations. Click any occupation to see full visa pathway details.