Does MLTSSL lead to permanent residence?

If you’re researching skilled migration to Australia, you’ve probably come across the MLTSSL — and naturally, your next question is: Does it actually lead to permanent residence?

The short answer is: Yes, in many cases it does. But how it works depends on your visa pathway.

What Is the MLTSSL?

The Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) is a list of occupations that Australia considers in long-term demand. It’s managed by the Department of Home Affairs and used for several skilled visa programs.

If your occupation is on the MLTSSL, you generally have access to more permanent migration pathways compared to occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).

How MLTSSL Connects to Permanent Residency

Here’s where things get practical.

If your job is on the MLTSSL, you may be eligible for permanent visas such as:

• Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) – A points-tested visa that does not require employer or state sponsorship.
• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) – Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – A regional pathway that can later lead to permanent residency.

The key difference?
The subclass 189 visa is only available for occupations on the MLTSSL. That’s why this list is so important if your goal is direct PR.

Is PR Guaranteed If You're on the MLTSSL?

This is where many people misunderstand the system.

Being on the MLTSSL does not automatically give you PR. You still need to:

• Pass a skills assessment
• Meet English requirements
• Reach the required points score
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
• Receive an invitation to apply

Migration is competitive. Some occupations require very high points to receive an invitation.

So think of MLTSSL as “opens the door”, not “guarantees entry.”

What About Employer Sponsorship?

If you’re sponsored by an employer, the MLTSSL can also matter.

For example, the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) offers a direct permanent residence pathway in certain streams, particularly when your occupation is aligned with long-term skill needs.

Compared to STSOL roles (which are often temporary-focused), MLTSSL occupations are considered more stable for long-term migration planning.

Is MLTSSL Better for International Graduates?

If you’re an international graduate in Australia, having your occupation on the MLTSSL can significantly improve your long-term prospects.

It gives you:

• Access to independent migration (189)
• More PR-focused pathways
• Stronger long-term migration stability

However, strategy matters. Sometimes graduates start on temporary visas (like the Temporary Graduate visa) and then transition toward PR once they gain experience.

If you're unsure where you stand, it's worth reviewing your occupation carefully and planning early. At BRIGENAI, we regularly guide international graduates through this decision-making process — especially when choosing roles that align with long-term residency goals. You can explore more guidance in our Australia migration resources here:
👉 https://brigenai.com/move-work-in-australia

For official and updated occupation lists, always refer to the Australian Government website:
👉 https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list

Final Thoughts

So, does MLTSSL lead to permanent residence?

Yes — it creates some of the strongest PR pathways in Australia’s skilled migration system.

But success depends on your points score, occupation demand, timing, and overall profile. If PR is your long-term goal, choosing an MLTSSL occupation is usually a smart strategic move.