What is Skilled Occupation List?

The Skilled Occupation List is an official list from the Department of Home Affairs.

It shows which jobs are eligible for skilled migration visas in Australia. If your job is on the list, you may be able to apply for certain visas, but you still need to meet other requirements.

What visas use this list?

If your occupation is on the list, you may be able to apply for:

1. Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

2. Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)

3. Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491)

4. Employer-sponsored visas (such as subclass 186, 482, 494)

5. Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)

6. Training visa (subclass 407)

Each visa has its own rules, so being on the list does not guarantee approval.

What information is included in the list?

For each occupation, the list includes:

• ANZSCO code (job classification code)

• Skill level, qualifications, and experience required

• Any restrictions (called caveats)

• Which list the occupation belongs to

• The skills assessment authority (who checks your qualifications)

  
  

Types of occupation lists

Occupations are grouped based on Australia’s needs:

• MLTSSL – long-term high-demand jobs

• STSOL – short-term shortage jobs

• ROL – regional occupation list

• CSOL – core skills list (newer combined list in some programs)

The list your job is on affects which visa you can apply for.

Important things to know

• You must choose the correct occupation and ANZSCO code

• Most applicants need a skills assessment from an approved authority

• Different visas may use different ANZSCO versions (2013 or 2022)

• If an occupation is removed later, existing applications are usually not affected but it will affect new applicants

• Changing jobs or employers may affect your eligibility for certain visa option

  
  

Summary

Australia uses this list to decide which skilled workers are needed. If your job is on the list and you meet the requirements, you may be able to apply for a visa to work or migrate to Australia.

Need help with migration?

If you are planning to move to Australia, we can help you:

• Check if your occupation is eligible

• Choose the right visa pathway

• Guide you through skills assessment and application

  
  

Note

The information can change at any time, so always check the latest updates before making any decisions.