What is the MLTSSL in Australia?

If you're planning to work and settle in Australia, you've probably come across the term MLTSSL. It sounds technical — but understanding it can seriously shape your visa strategy.

Let’s break it down clearly.

What is the MLTSSL?

The Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) is a list of occupations that the Australian Government considers in long-term demand across the country.

If your occupation is on this list, it means:

• Australia sees your skill as strategically important
• You may have access to more visa options
• You’re more likely to have a pathway to permanent residency

The MLTSSL is used primarily for skilled migration visas under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.

Which Visas Use the MLTSSL?

If your occupation appears on the MLTSSL, you may be eligible for:

• Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) – Permanent residency without employer or state sponsorship
• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) – PR with state nomination
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Regional pathway to PR

This is important: Subclass 189 is only available to occupations on the MLTSSL.

So if your job is not on this list, your options may be more limited — often requiring state or employer sponsorship.

You can always check the most updated version of the list directly via the Australian Government website here:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list

What Types of Jobs Are on the MLTSSL?

Common categories include:

• Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
• Healthcare professionals (Registered Nurses, Doctors)
• IT professionals (Software Engineers, ICT Business Analysts)
• Accountants
• Teachers
• Certain trades

However, the list changes based on Australia’s economic needs. Some occupations are added; others are removed.

This is why checking the current list — not an old blog post — is critical before planning your move.

Why Does the MLTSSL Matter So Much?

Here’s where many people misunderstand things.

Being on the MLTSSL doesn’t automatically give you a visa. But it opens doors:

• Access to independent PR (subclass 189)
• Stronger migration points profile
• More stable long-term planning

If you’re currently studying in Australia or working on a temporary visa, knowing whether your occupation sits on the MLTSSL helps you decide:

• What course to study
• Whether to switch occupations
• If regional migration makes sense
• How to plan your skills assessment

At BRIGENAI, we often see candidates focus only on “getting a job” — but migration strategy should start much earlier.

If you're exploring Australia as a destination, our Australia migration insights page can help you understand the broader picture:
👉 https://www.brigenai.com/destination/australia

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MLTSSL vs STSOL – What’s the Difference?

You might also hear about the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).

In simple terms:

• MLTSSL = long-term strategic demand, stronger PR pathways
• STSOL = short-term demand, often limited visa options

Some occupations move between lists over time — which is why timing can matter.

Final Practical Advice

If you're serious about migrating to Australia:

1. Confirm your occupation ANZSCO code
2. Check whether it’s on the current MLTSSL
3. Understand which visa subclasses apply
4. Calculate your migration points
5. Plan early — especially if you’re still studying

Australia’s skilled migration system rewards preparation.

And if you want structured, step-by-step guidance tailored to your background, BRIGENAI helps overseas workers and international students align their career choices with visa strategy — not just job searching.

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