Is STSOL suitable for international graduates?

If you’re an international graduate in Australia, you’ve probably come across the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and wondered: Is this actually good for me? Or does it limit my permanent residency options?

Let’s break it down clearly.

What Is STSOL?

The Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) is a list of occupations that Australia considers to be in short-term demand. These roles are typically eligible for certain temporary and state-nominated visas, such as:

• Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)
• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) (state-dependent)

Unlike the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), STSOL occupations are generally considered short-term, which affects long-term migration pathways.

So… Is It Suitable for International Graduates?

The honest answer: It depends on your goals.

✅ When STSOL can be suitable

STSOL may work well for you if:

1. You want to stay in Australia short to medium term
   If your goal is to gain Australian work experience after graduation, STSOL-linked visas like the 482 can help you stay employed legally.
2. You’re open to state nomination pathways
   Some states nominate STSOL occupations under the 190 visa. Requirements vary by state and change frequently. Always check the official Department of Home Affairs website:
   https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/
3. You’re building experience strategically
   Some graduates start in an STSOL occupation and later transition into a role that appears on the MLTSSL.

⚠️ When STSOL may be risky

STSOL can be limiting if:

• Your main goal is direct permanent residency (PR)
• Your occupation has no clear pathway to MLTSSL
• State nomination for your role is highly competitive or closed

Unlike MLTSSL occupations, STSOL roles do not automatically provide strong independent PR pathways such as the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189).

So if PR is your top priority, you need to plan very carefully.

Smart Strategy for International Graduates

Instead of asking “Is STSOL good or bad?”, a better question is:

How can I use STSOL strategically?

Here’s how experienced migration advisors usually guide graduates:

1. Map your occupation against both STSOL and MLTSSL
2. Check which states currently nominate your role
3. Understand English, salary, and experience requirements
4. Have a Plan B if state nomination closes

Many international graduates underestimate how quickly occupation lists and state quotas can change. Planning early — ideally during your final study year — makes a huge difference.

If you’re unsure where your degree sits, you can explore career and visa pathway guidance at
👉 https://www.brigenai.com/

We often help graduates look at both job market demand and migration viability together — not separately. That’s key.