Occupation List Update

The Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) is reviewed and updated every 6 months. The Department of Home Affairs have advised that a review took place in late 2017 and the updated occupation list is due to be released and will come into effect on or about 17th January 2018. It was anticipated that this occupation list would have been updated and in effect at the beginning of January.

The new occupation list will not be applied to applications lodged and not yet decided. This includes 457 visa applications. Changes to the occupation lists between April 2017 to date have been applied to 457 applications lodged and not yet decided. The change in approach to not applying occupation list changes retrospectively to the 457 program is a positive outcome. It is a much fairer approach given the processing times of 457 applications is 3-8 months.

The next occupation list instruments will be published in March 2018 in line with several changes to be implemented for the temporary and permanent employer sponsored programs including the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) and the Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa ( Subclass 187).

To assess your eligibility for a visa or further assistance, contact one of our experienced Registered Migration Agents today.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case specific information or advice, please contact SCA Connect.