The federal government will allow workers from the United States, such as electricians and plumbers, to get their licences to work in Australia on arrival.

Federal Skills Minister Chris Evans said the measure would link Australian employers with skilled workers in the US to fill skill shortages, especially in the civil engineering areas.

"Great opportunity" ... Skills Minister Chris Evans. Credit:Penny Bradfield

"This is a great opportunity to address skill shortages in Australia by filling shortfalls in particular areas with qualified candidates from the US, with applications expected to open from mid-April," he said in a statement today.

Under existing arrangements such workers need to be assessed onshore, which can mean waiting months between entry and starting work.