Australia does not have one universal occupation list that makes a person eligible for every skilled visa. Home Affairs maintains a combined Australian Skilled Occupation List showing which occupations can be relevant to different visa subclasses, lists and assessing authorities.
Quick Answer: What Is the Australian Skilled Occupation List?
The Home Affairs Skilled Occupation List is a searchable government resource linking occupations to ANZSCO codes, eligible visa subclasses, the applicable occupation list and the relevant assessing authority. Different visa programmes use different occupation specifications.
Which Visas Use Skilled Occupation Requirements?
• Skilled Independent visa, subclass 189, Points-tested stream.
• Skilled Nominated visa, subclass 190.
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, subclass 491.
• Skills in Demand visa, subclass 482, Core Skills stream.
• Employer Nomination Scheme visa, subclass 186, relevant streams.
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa, subclass 494.
• Other listed skilled or training pathways, depending on current rules.
What Are MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL and CSOL?
Home Affairs’ combined list can show occupation-list classifications including the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), Regional Occupation List (ROL) and, for relevant employer-sponsored pathways, the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). The list applicable to you depends on the visa subclass and stream.
How to Check Your Occupation
1. Identify the occupation that best matches your actual qualifications and duties.
2. Find its ANZSCO code on the official Home Affairs Skilled Occupation List.
3. Check which visa subclasses are shown for that occupation.
4. Check the relevant assessing authority.
5. Review the visa’s separate age, English, skills, points, nomination or sponsorship requirements.
6. Check current state or territory nomination criteria if considering subclass 190 or state-nominated 491.
Being on a List Does Not Guarantee an Invitation
Occupation eligibility is only one part of skilled migration. For points-tested visas, you may also need a suitable skills assessment, an EOI, enough points and an invitation or nomination. Home Affairs states that meeting the minimum points threshold does not guarantee an invitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there one skilled occupation list for all Australian visas?
No. Different visas and streams use different occupation specifications.
Does being on the list guarantee PR?
No. You must meet all other visa criteria and, where relevant, receive an invitation or nomination.
Where do I find the assessing authority?
The official Home Affairs occupation list identifies the assessing authority against each occupation.
Can occupation lists change?
Yes. Always check the current official list before making a migration decision.
Next Step
Unsure which occupation and visa pathway match your profile? Speak with eduaid for a professional assessment based on the current official lists and your circumstances.
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and may change. Eligibility, visa conditions, costs and outcomes depend on individual circumstances and decisions by the relevant authorities. Check current official requirements before making an application or financial commitment.
Official Sources
· Department of Home Affairs, Skilled Occupation List