Why is the MLTSSL important for migration?

If you’re planning to migrate to Australia as a skilled professional, the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) is one of the most important lists you need to understand.

The Department of Home Affairs uses the MLTSSL to identify occupations that are in long-term shortage across Australia. In simple terms, if your job is on this list, Australia considers your skills genuinely needed for the country’s future.

But why does that matter so much for migration?

Let’s break it down.

1️⃣ It Opens Direct Pathways to Permanent Residency

The biggest reason the MLTSSL is important is that it connects directly to permanent visa options.

Occupations on the MLTSSL are eligible for key skilled visas like:

• Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
• Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491)

The 189 visa is particularly important because it allows you to apply for PR without employer sponsorship or state nomination. That level of independence is a major advantage.

If your occupation is not on the MLTSSL, your options may be more limited or temporary.

You can view the official occupation list here:
👉 https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list

2️⃣ It Signals Long-Term Demand

The MLTSSL isn’t just a migration list — it reflects Australia’s long-term economic priorities.

Occupations typically include:

• Engineers
• ICT professionals
• Healthcare workers
• Teachers
• Trades specialists

If your role appears on this list, it suggests:

• Strong labour market demand
• Better job security
• More stable migration pathways
• Higher likelihood of PR invitations

For international students or professionals planning a long-term move, this gives clarity and direction.

3️⃣ It Impacts Points-Test Invitations

Australia’s skilled migration system works on a points-based system.

When your occupation is on the MLTSSL:

• You may qualify for more visa subclasses
• You can compete in broader invitation rounds
• You are often prioritised compared to short-term list occupations

This can significantly affect how quickly you receive an invitation to apply.

4️⃣ It Affects Career Strategy

Many people make the mistake of choosing a course or career path without checking migration relevance.

If you're an international student in Australia, choosing a qualification linked to an MLTSSL occupation can dramatically improve your PR prospects.

Before committing to study or a career transition, it’s worth reviewing:
👉 https://brigenai.com/where-should-i-start-if-i-want-to-work-in-australia/

At BRIGENAI, we often guide students and professionals to align their career moves with migration pathways — not just job titles.

5️⃣ It Influences Employer Sponsorship Opportunities

Even though the MLTSSL is most famous for skilled independent visas, it can also influence employer-sponsored options.

Employers are more likely to support sponsorship when:

• The occupation is recognised as nationally needed
• There is clear evidence of skills shortage

This makes the MLTSSL strategically important for both migrants and businesses.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about migrating to Australia, checking whether your occupation is on the MLTSSL should be one of your first steps.

It affects:

• Your visa eligibility
• Your permanent residency pathway
• Your long-term career stability
• Your migration timeline

Think of the MLTSSL as a roadmap. If your occupation is on it, you’re aligned with Australia’s long-term workforce strategy. If not, you may need a different plan — such as state nomination, employer sponsorship, or even a career pivot.