Migration Overseas
Understand MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL, and other occupation lists. Find your ANZSCO code, check in-demand occupations for 2024-2025, and identify the right skills assessment body.
Australia uses different occupation lists for different visa pathways. Your occupation must be on the relevant list for your visa type.
The primary skills list for skilled migration visa pathways.
Temporary skilled visas and specific state sponsorships.
For regional visa categories with regional requirements.
COVID-19 priority list for essential occupations.
ANZSCO is the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations. Each occupation has a unique 6-digit code.
ANZSCO codes are 6-digit numbers that uniquely identify occupations in Australia and New Zealand. The format is: XYZ ABC
Example: 261313 - Software Engineer
Step 1: Visit the official ANZSCO search at www.asqa.gov.au or the Department of Home Affairs website
Step 2: Search for your job title or occupation in the search box
Step 3: Find the exact match - read the detailed description
Step 4: Note the 6-digit ANZSCO code (e.g., 261312)
Step 5: Verify your occupation is on the required list (MLTSSL, STSOL, etc.)
Option 1 - Find a Similar Code: Your job might be listed under a different title. For example, "Software Developer" and "Programmer" may have separate codes.
Option 2 - Apply for Sponsorship: If your occupation isn't on the list, you may qualify for employer-sponsored visas (TSS 482).
Option 3 - Wait for Updates: Occupation lists are updated regularly. Your occupation may be added in future updates.
Option 4 - Regional Nomination: Some occupations are on regional lists (ROL) but not the main MLTSSL list.
These occupations have the best chances of invitation due to high demand in Australia.
High demand across all states. Develop, test, and maintain software applications.
Web, mobile, and application developers in high demand. Very competitive pathway.
Critical shortage across Australia. Aged care, hospital, and community nursing roles.
High demand in rural and regional areas. Excellent career prospects.
Strong demand in manufacturing, mining, and construction sectors.
Infrastructure projects and construction industry demand high. Good points potential.
Continuous demand in construction. Strong earning potential and career growth.
Essential services occupation. Steady demand across residential and commercial sectors.
Moderate demand, highly competitive due to large applicant pool. Strong English needed.
Each occupation group has a specific assessing authority that must conduct your skills assessment.
| Occupation Group | Assessment Body | Typical Timeline | Rough Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT Professionals Software Engineer, Developer, Analyst |
ACS (Australian Computer Society) | 4-8 weeks | $530-630 |
| Engineers Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc. |
Engineers Australia | 4-8 weeks | $600-800 |
| Trades Carpenter, Plumber, Electrician |
VETASSESS or State Authority | 4-12 weeks | $400-800 |
| Nurses & Midwives Registered Nurses, Midwives |
ANMAC (Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council) | 6-12 weeks | $700-1000 |
| Accountants Accountant, Auditor |
CPA Australia, CA Australia, or IPA Australia | 4-8 weeks | $700-1000 |
| Medical Professionals Doctor, Dentist, Pharmacist |
AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Authority) | 8-16 weeks | $800-1500 |
| Teachers Primary, Secondary, Special Ed |
AITSL (Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership) | 6-12 weeks | $600-900 |
| General Occupations Other occupations |
VETASSESS or TRA | 8-12 weeks | $500-1000 |
Single Assessment Body: Most occupations have only one authorized assessment body. You must use the official body for your occupation.
Positive Assessment Required: You need a positive skills assessment to proceed with visa applications. A negative assessment means you don't qualify.
Assessment Validity: Skills assessments are typically valid for 3 years from the date of issue.
Document Requirements: Have your qualifications, work experience letters, and employment records ready before applying.
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about occupation lists and codes.
MLTSSL (Medium & Long-term Strategic Skills List) is for permanent migration visas and addresses long-term skill shortages. STSOL (Short-term Skilled Occupation List) is for temporary visas and addresses immediate skill gaps. MLTSSL is used for 189, 190, and 491 visas, while STSOL is used for 482 TSS visas.
No, the 189 visa specifically requires occupations on the MLTSSL. However, many occupations appear on both lists. If your occupation is only on STSOL, you may be eligible for the 482 TSS visa instead, but not 189.
The occupation lists are reviewed and updated regularly, usually at least annually. Updates can happen anytime, and occupations can be added, removed, or moved between lists based on labor market needs.
You need to find the closest match based on your actual job duties and responsibilities, not just the job title. Read the detailed descriptions of ANZSCO codes carefully and choose the one that best matches what you actually do in your role.
You can only nominate one occupation in your EOI and visa application. However, you can obtain multiple skills assessments and submit different EOIs for different occupations if you meet the criteria for more than one.
A positive skills assessment means the assessing authority has verified that your qualifications and experience meet the standards for your nominated occupation. This is a mandatory requirement for all skilled visa applications.
Skills assessments are typically valid for 3 years from the date of issue. You should obtain your assessment shortly before applying for an invitation to ensure maximum validity during your visa processing period.
You must have a positive skills assessment before you can receive an invitation to apply for the visa. However, you can submit your EOI before receiving the assessment, but you'll need it before being invited to lodge the full application.
The official lists are available on the Department of Home Affairs website (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au). You can search by occupation name or ANZSCO code. Always verify the current lists directly from the official source.
If your occupation is removed from the list before you receive an invitation, you won't be invited. This is why it's important to monitor the lists and apply as soon as you're eligible. If your occupation is removed after you're invited, you can usually still proceed with your application.
Our expert team can help you find the right occupation code, verify eligibility, and guide you through the skills assessment process. Get a free consultation today.
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