Skilled Occupation Lists for Australian Visas (2025) – Which List Are You On?

If you're planning to migrate to Australia under a skilled visa, knowing which Skilled Occupation List (SOL) applies to your profession is crucial. Your eligibility for different visa subclasses depends on these lists.
In 2025, Australia has four key skilled occupation lists, each determining which skilled workers can apply for specific visas. Let’s break them down:
1. Medium & Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) - 212 Occupations
Who is eligible?
If your job is on the MLTSSL, you may qualify for:
Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa – Permanent)
Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa – Permanent)
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa – Provisional)
Subclass 407 (Training Visa – Temporary)
This list is best for long-term skilled migration pathways leading to permanent residency.
2. Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) - 215 Occupations
Who is eligible?
If your occupation is on the STSOL, you may apply for:
Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa – Permanent)
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa – Provisional)
Subclass 407 (Training Visa – Temporary)
⚠️ Important: STSOL occupations are NOT eligible for Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa).
Great option for state-nominated pathways and regional work opportunities.
3. Regional Occupation List (ROL) - 77 Occupations
Who is eligible?
If your occupation falls under the ROL, you may qualify for:
Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional – Provisional)
Subclass 407 (Training Visa – Temporary)
This list is specifically designed for those looking to work in regional Australia under employer sponsorship.
4. Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL) - 456 Occupations
Who is eligible?
Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (replacing the TSS Visa)
Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme – Direct Entry – Permanent Residency)
The CSOL supports the new Skills in Demand Visa introduced in December 2024 and serves as the eligibility list for applicants under the employer-sponsored Subclass 186 Direct Entry pathway.
Which List Do You Fall Under?
With frequent updates to Australia's immigration policies, checking the latest occupation lists can make a big difference in your visa success. The lists determine which skilled workers are in demand and which visa pathways are available for migration to Australia.
Pro Tip: The Australian government updates skilled occupation lists based on labour market needs, so staying informed is key!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know which Skilled Occupation List applies to me? Check the latest legislative instrument on the Australian Government’s website or consult a migration expert.
Can I apply for permanent residency if my job is on the STSOL? Yes, but you need state nomination under the Subclass 190 visa or a regional nomination for the Subclass 491 visa.
What if my occupation is not on any of these lists? You may explore Employer-Sponsored Visas or study pathways that lead to skilled migration.
Determining the right Skilled Occupation List is crucial for a successful Australian visa application. If you’re unsure which list applies to your occupation, we can help!
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