Australia has introduced a significant update to its immigration system with the launch of the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), effective 7th December 2024. This list replaces the previous Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). Here’s a detailed look at what this means for skilled workers and employers alike.
The CSOL consolidates and replaces the previous skilled occupation lists, making it easier for migrants and employers to identify eligible roles. The CSOL is designed to target occupations with the highest demand to support Australia’s economic growth and workforce needs.
Who Can Use the CSOL?
The CSOL is applicable to:
Skills in Demand (SID) Visa – Core Skills Stream
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Direct Entry Stream
Note: The CSOL does not apply to skilled point-tested visas such as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189).
What Visas Are Affected?
1. Skills in Demand (SID) Visa
The new Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa has replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. This visa allows workers to stay in Australia for up to four years and offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency. Here are the highlights:
Reduced Experience Requirement: Applicants now need only 1 year of work experience in their nominated occupation or a related field, compared to the 2 years previously required under the TSS visa.
Same English Language Requirement: The language proficiency criteria remain unchanged from the TSS visa.
The SID visa features three streams:
Core Skills Stream: For occupations listed on the CSOL with a minimum salary of AUD 73,150.
Specialist Skills Stream: For highly skilled workers in ANZSCO occupations (excluding Major Groups 3, 7, and 8). Minimum salary: AUD 135,000.
Labour Agreement Stream: Soon to be replaced by the Essential Skills Stream (currently under development).
2. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Direct Entry
The CSOL enables direct entry under the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186). This pathway allows employers to nominate eligible workers for permanent residency without the need for a transitional period.
Key Benefits of the CSOL
Simplified Process: Replacing multiple lists with one comprehensive list reduces confusion and speeds up the application process.
Broader Opportunities: With over 450 occupations included, the CSOL provides pathways for workers across a wide range of industries. New occupations were added, such as Childcare worker, Office Manager, Retail Manager, Massage Therapist
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Both the SID and ENS visas offer clear options for permanent residence, ensuring stability for skilled migrants and their employers.
How to Access the CSOL
You can view the complete Core Skills Occupation List and find detailed information about eligible occupations here. This resource will help you determine if your occupation qualifies under the new criteria and which visa options are available to you.
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