Australian Occupation List for Skilled Visas & Employer Sponsorship
Find out whether your occupation may be eligible for employer sponsorship, skilled migration, permanent residence or skills assessment pathways in Australia.
Check the Official Occupation List
Subclass 482 • Subclass 186 • Subclass 189 • Subclass 190 • Subclass 491 • Subclass 494
Why Is the Occupation List Important?
Many Australian skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas rely on approved occupations. Your occupation can affect visa eligibility, sponsorship options, skills assessments and permanent residence pathways.
| Area | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Employer Sponsorship | May determine sponsorship eligibility. |
| Skilled Migration | May affect visa pathways and points-tested options. |
| Skills Assessment | Determines the relevant assessing authority. |
| Permanent Residence | Can influence long-term migration strategies. |
How the Process Works
Step 1: Find your occupation on the current occupation list.
Step 2: Identify the correct ANZSCO occupation code.
Step 3: Review whether a skills assessment is required.
Step 4: Check available visa pathways.
Step 5: Assess sponsorship, nomination or skilled migration options.
Step 6: Prepare your migration strategy and application.
Popular Occupations
Healthcare
- Registered Nurses
- Doctors
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational Therapists
Information Technology
- Software Engineers
- Developer Programmers
- ICT Business Analysts
- Cyber Security Specialists
Engineering
- Civil Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Structural Engineers
Trades
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Carpenters
- Mechanics
Employer Sponsorship Visas
| Visa | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Subclass 482 | Employer-sponsored temporary work visa. |
| Subclass 186 | Employer-sponsored permanent residence pathway. |
| Subclass 494 | Regional employer-sponsored visa. |
Occupation eligibility is only one part of the assessment. The role, duties, qualifications, work experience and visa requirements must also be considered.
Common Mistakes
- Choosing an occupation based only on job title.
- Using an incorrect ANZSCO code.
- Obtaining the wrong skills assessment.
- Assuming a listed occupation guarantees visa approval.
- Using outdated occupation information.
- Delaying migration advice until late in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my occupation automatically eligible if it appears on the list?
No. Occupation eligibility is only one component of visa eligibility.
Can an employer sponsor me?
Possibly. Sponsorship depends on the occupation, employer and visa requirements.
Do I need a skills assessment?
Many skilled visa pathways require a skills assessment through an approved assessing authority.
Can occupation lists change?
Yes. The Department may update occupation settings and visa requirements from time to time.
How Caspian Legal Can Help
- Employer-Sponsored Visas
- Skills in Demand (Subclass 482)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
- Skilled Migration Visas
- Occupation Eligibility Assessments
- Skills Assessment Guidance
- Permanent Residence Pathways
Need Help With Skilled Migration or Employer Sponsorship?
Caspian Legal assists individuals and businesses across Sydney and throughout Australia with skilled migration and employer-sponsored visa applications.
Caspian Legal Pty Ltd
Hornsby, Sydney NSW
1300 082 545
This page contains general information only and is not legal advice. Migration law and policy may change and eligibility depends on individual circumstances.
