Skilled occupation lists: which one applies to you?
On this page
What lists are there?
Home Affairs names four lists:
- Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
- Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
- Regional Occupation List (ROL)
The department presents them as a combined list of eligible skilled occupations.
Which visas use the lists?
The page covers the 186, 187, 189, 190, 407, 482 (Core Skills), 485, 489, 491 and 494 programs. It links the classification version, not each list, to each visa.
| Version | Visas |
|---|---|
| ANZSCO 2022, which covers the CSOL | 186 and 482 |
| ANZSCO 2013, which covers the MLTSSL, STSOL and ROL | All the other subclasses |
The temporary residence transition streams for the 186 and 187 have no occupation list. Eligibility is based on the occupation from your most recently held temporary skilled visa.
For the 485 Post-Vocational Education Work stream, the skills assessment authority sets the requirements and decides whether you qualify.
Is the CSOL being reviewed?
The CSOL took effect on 7 December 2024 and has 456 occupations.
How do I check my occupation?
- Open the combined list on the Home Affairs page.
- Find your occupation by name or ANZSCO code.
- Note which list it is on, any caveats, and the skills assessing authority.
- Check the legislative instrument for the visa program you want. Home Affairs says the current list for each program is in its legislative instrument.
Are there caveats?
Home Affairs says caveats that exclude an occupation in certain circumstances apply only to the ENS Direct Entry stream and the subclass 489, 491 and 494 SID visas, as the page words it. Read the caveat for your occupation carefully.
What if my occupation is removed?
Home Affairs says:
- removing an occupation from a list does not affect pending nomination or visa applications
- existing skilled visa holders are affected only if they change occupation or employer and the new occupation is no longer on the combined list
Does the list use OSCA?
It does not mention OSCA.
FAQ
Is my occupation on the list?
It shows the lists, caveats and assessing authority for each occupation.
Do I need a skills assessment?
Often yes. The combined list names the assessing authority. Some streams are exempt.
What is the difference between the CSOL and MLTSSL?
Home Affairs links the CSOL to ANZSCO 2022 (the 186 and 482), and the MLTSSL, STSOL and ROL to ANZSCO 2013 (other subclasses).
Do states use the same list?
States have their own occupation lists for nomination. Check the state website.
What if the list changes after I apply?
Home Affairs says removing an occupation does not affect pending applications.