A to-do list, a shortlist, a hit list… some we want to be on, others, not so much. But when it comes to migration, everyone wants to be on an occupation list!
There are so many lists, and so many acronyms for those lists, that they are surrounded by controversy and confusion. But, the lists aren’t quite as complicated as people tend to believe, so we are here to break it down for you.
The visa you are applying for dictates which list you need to consider, which already simplifies things. Let’s have a look at each of them individually to see what they offer.
Which list? The ROL, MLTSSL, and STSOL explained.
ROL: This is the Regional Occupation List, and includes a range of occupations that are specifically needed in regional areas. If your occupation is listed here, and you are happy to live in a regional area, you can find an employer to sponsor you on the 494 visa and work for them for up to 5 years, with the option to apply for PR through the 191. Alternatively, you could apply for Skilled Migration through the 491. If a regional area is not for you, read on to see which other lists exist.
MLTSSL: This is the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List, and is for people who are seeking permanent residency through employer sponsorship with the 482 or 186, or through skilled visas like the 189, 190 and 491. If your occupation is on this list, you can find an employer who is willing to sponsor you and then work for them for 4 years. After the first 3, you have the option to apply for PR through the 186, with your employer’s support.
STSOL: This is the Short-term Skilled Occupation List and is for people seeking employer sponsorship for the 482 visa. If your occupation is on this list it is because the government has identified a temporary gap in the job market, and needs people to fill those positions as soon as possible. What’s next? Like above, find an employer who is happy to sponsor you and, with their support, apply for the visa. You will have two years in which you must work for that employer. After the initial two years, you can apply for another two with the same employer. But, here is the ‘hot topic’ issue with the STSOL: there is no pathway to PR. For this reason, it is common to hear people say that if your occupation is on the STSOL you have no chance of staying permanently. But we’re here to tell you, that is not always the case.
Check the star of the show: State Skilled Occupation Lists.
Each state/territory in Australia has the power to decide, independently of the Federal government, which occupations they want to let in. That means your occupation could be on a state list, regardless of which federal list it originated, meaning even those occupations on the STSOL could find a direct pathway to PR. The visas that the states are all about are? Skilled Migration! If you have your sights on a skilled migration visa, rather than an employer sponsoring you, the state sponsors you.
Each state decides at the start of the financial year which occupations they are in need of and then offers either the 190, 491, or both, as eligible options for these occupations. The 190 grants PR straight away and has no location restrictions, whilst the 491 provides a clear pathway to PR and can be granted in regional areas only.
At this time of year we see you all holding your breath waiting for the state nomination allocations to be announced and the occupation lists to be updated. But knowing that changes can occur at any time of the year, gives you an opportunity. You don’t have control over what the states and territories are doing, but you do have control over the preparation of your application. We suggest you focus on the other requirements you need in order to apply, such as your Skills Assessment and your English test. Once you have these factors under control, you’ll be ready to apply for Skilled Migration as soon as the opportunity arises. And if you are early on in your migration journey and aren’t sure which state will list your occupation, having an application ready to go will allow you to make some quick decisions when the time comes.
Talk what’s your strategy?
Our final message: When you have a strategy in place, there are fewer lists to worry about. Don’t get overwhelmed, get organised! All of this is a lot simpler with a migration agent by your side, advising you on your options. Book a consultation with 4Migration today so you can find out where your occupation can take you.