For immigration, Australia remains one of the top places for skilled workers, and the immigration policies continue to adjust to Australia’s economic and labor market situation. In 2025, the Australian government revised the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and implemented new visa opportunities for skilled workers globally.
Full Skilled Occupation List for 2025
The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) outlines all the jobs permitted for skilled migration, ranging across the fields of health, engineering, information technology, education, construction, and trades. It is regularly revised and updated. As of 2025, the Australian government expanded and updated several categories to fulfill the skill gaps.
Major categories include:
- Health – medical practitioners, nurses, and pharmacists.
- Engineers – civil, mechanical, electrical, and software.
- IT – software developers, network administrators, and cybersecurity experts.
- Education – secondary and primary school teachers of in-demand subjects.
- Trades – electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and mechanics.
- Business and Finance – accountants, financial analysts, and management consultants.
Visa Possibilities for 2025
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): Live and work permanently in Australia without employer sponsorship for points-tested applicants.
- State-Sponsored Visas (subclass 190, 491): State and territory government endorsement linked to sponsorship for occupations on the SOL.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491): Live and work in regional Australia and gain permanent residency.
- Employer-Sponsored Visas (subclass 186, 482): Receive a skilled worker position from a registered Australian employer.
- Global Talent Visa: Targets high achievers including academics, tech professionals, and artists.
Entry Requirements & Points
- Candidates need to fulfill the English language, health, and character conditions.
- Age, education, work experience, English qualification, and regional study/work determine points.
- The 65-70 points range is the minimum for most skilled visas, but this number changes with demand.
Main New Updates for 2025
- The SOL has newer emerging sectors with a focus on renewable energy, cyber security, and healthcare technology.
- Temporary visas focus on quicker processing times and regional migration to assist less populated areas.
- New incentives entice applicants to settle in regional Australia by awarding extra points and facilitating quicker processing.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Key Occupations in Demand | Health, engineering, IT, trades, education, finance |
| Major Visa Types | Subclass 189, 190, 491, 186, 482, Global Talent |
| Entry Requirements | Age, English, health, character, skills assessment |
| Points Threshold | Typically 65–70 points |
| Focus for 2025 | Regional migration, skilled sectors, fast processing |
FAQs
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What are the most in-demand occupations for 2025?
Health professionals, IT specialists, engineers, and tradespeople are among the top roles.
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Can I apply for a regional visa?
Yes, visas like subclass 491 and 187 target regional Australia with added benefits for applicants willing to settle outside major cities.
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How do I check if my occupation is on the SOL?
The official Department of Home Affairs website provides the current list, including detailed job descriptions and codes.
In 2025, Australia will continue aiding its economy with the migration pathway. It will address the unmet demand of the workforce, promote migration to regional areas, and bring international talent. Candidates will have better chances of being selected if they prepare strong applications that meet the existing occupational lists and the visa requirements.
