Skilled Worker Visa for Australia: Requirements, Occupation Lists & Points System

Australia’s economy keeps leaning on high‑value talent. Whether you are a cloud engineer from Bengaluru or a registered nurse in Manila, the skilled migration visa requirements in Australia can convert your résumé into a passport to permanent residency. In this in‑depth guide you’ll learn:

• The exact requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs

• How the occupation lists (MLTSSL, STSOL & ROL) decide your fate

• A plain‑English breakdown of the 65‑point threshold and how to beat it

• Real‑world examples, pro‑level tactics, FAQs and pitfalls to avoid

By the end, you’ll have a clear game plan—and a few insider shortcuts—to maximise your invitation chances.

1. Why Australia’s Skilled Migration Program Matters

• Skilled migrants now fill 71 % of Australia’s 2024‑25 migration program—132,200 places, the highest in a decade. 

• Critical shortages in health, construction, IT and energy mean invitation rounds are happening “periodically throughout the program year.” 

Bottom line: competition is hot, but so is demand.

2. Core Requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa

Age (under 45)

You must be younger than 45 on the day you receive an invitation. Age also drives up to 30 points (see Section 3). 

Eligible Occupation

Your job must appear on one of the three official lists:

These lists are refreshed several times a year; always cross‑check the official page before lodging an EOI. 

Skills Assessment

A positive assessment from the relevant authority (e.g., Engineers Australia, AITSL for teachers) is compulsory. Timing matters—many bodies take 8–12 weeks.

English Proficiency

At minimum you need Competent English (e.g., IELTS 6 in each band). Higher scores bump your points up to 20.

Health & Character

You and your family must pass medicals and secure police clearances. Factor medical surcharges and translation costs into your budget.

Points Threshold

You need at least 65 points to receive an invitation—but real‑world cut‑offs often sit higher (80‑90 for popular occupations). 

3. The Points System Demystified

Below is a snapshot of how points are awarded (data sourced from the Home Affairs points tables).

4. Occupation Lists in Detail

Medium & Long‑Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

High‑demand occupations with long‑term shortages. Grants access to the Independent 189 visa (no state sponsorship required).

Short‑Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)

Shorter supply gaps, but you’ll need a nominating state (subclass 190) or an employer‑sponsored visa (subclass 482).

 Regional Occupation List (ROL)

Expanded list exclusive to regional areas. You gain an extra 15 points if sponsored for subclass 491. Regions also offer cheaper living costs and faster invitations.

Step‑by‑Step Application Roadmap

1. Check your occupation & points using the official calculator.

2. Secure skills assessment—without it, your EOI is invalid.

3. Sit an English test. Aim for “Superior” to future‑proof your score.

4. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect. Invitations roll out periodically across the program year. 

5. Receive invitation → lodge visa within 60 days.

6. Medical & police checks, pay the visa fee, upload documents.

7. Visa outcome & arrival. Most 189 decisions in 2025 are hitting 6–8 months, but regional applications can be quicker.

Real‑Life Success Story

Case Study: Priya, 29, Software Engineer from India

• Age: 30 pts

• Superior English (IELTS 8+): 20 pts

• Overseas exp. 6‑8 yrs: 15 pts

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science: 15 pts

Total: 80 pts

Priya lodged her EOI in December 2024. She received a subclass 189 invitation in the April 2025 round and her visa was granted in October 2025—exactly ten months from first step to grant. Key to her speed: lodging immediately after a fresh IELTS result and choosing ANZSCO 261313 (Software Engineer), which sits on the MLTSSL.

Pros & Cons at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I update my EOI after submission?
Yes. You can amend points‑relevant info (e.g., new job, higher IELTS) anytime before invitation.

Q2. What if my occupation moves off the list?
If your EOI predates the change, you remain eligible—but new EOIs must follow the latest lists.

Q3. Is state nomination worth it?
For STSOL occupations, absolutely. Five extra points and a dedicated quota offset processing fees.

Q4. Do income thresholds affect me?
From 1 July 2025 all skilled visa income thresholds rise 4.6 %, so confirm employer offers meet the new benchmarks. 

Action Checklist

• Download the official points table (bookmark for quick reference)

• Book your English test early—scores are valid for two years

• Prepare certified copies of transcripts & work references

• Follow our deep‑dive on How Gold Coast Immigration Lawyers Can Simplify Your Path <!--dofollow internal link-->

• Subscribe to invitation‑round alerts on Home Affairs’ site to track monthly cut‑offs

Conclusion

Securing a Skilled Worker Visa for Australia is a calculated points game—yet one that rewards meticulous planning. By aligning your credentials with the occupation lists and maximising every available point, you transform yourself from applicant to invitee. If the process still feels daunting, consider a tailored consult with our MARA‑registered partners.