ANZSCO occupation codes
Each occupation has a six-digit ANZSCO code. The code determines which assessing authority handles your skills assessment, what duties and qualifications are required, and whether the occupation is genuinely yours.
Central Occupation List · Replaced SOL and MLTSSL
The CSOL decides which occupations have a pathway into Australia.
It replaced the older Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) to simplify the system. If your occupation is on the CSOL, migration doors open. If it is not, you need to look at other pathways.
How the CSOL works
Three structural elements.
The CSOL is more than a list of occupation titles. It is a structured framework of codes, skill levels, and caveats.
Skill level
Every CSOL occupation is assessed against ANZSCO skill levels. Most are skill level 1, 2, or 3. Lower skill levels do not usually qualify for skilled migration.
Caveats and exclusions
Some CSOL occupations carry geographic restrictions, salary floors, or industry-specific rules. Always check caveats before assuming your occupation gives a straightforward pathway.
Annual review cycle
The CSOL is reviewed annually based on Jobs and Skills Australia advice. New occupations added. Existing occupations adjusted. Timing can matter for lodgement.
CSOL across visa types
Different rules on different visa subclasses.
The CSOL is used differently depending on which visa you are applying for. Knowing which rule applies to your target visa is foundational.
Subclass 189 Skilled IndependentYour occupation must be on the CSOL. Non-negotiable for the 189.
Subclass 190 Skilled NominatedCSOL OR the nominating state's own occupation list. States sometimes extend access. See 190 guide.
Subclass 491 Skilled Work RegionalCSOL or regional list. Regional lists tend to be more generous. See 491 guide.
Skills in Demand (SID) visaCore Skills stream uses CSOL. Specialist Skills stream is for high-earning senior roles regardless of list. Essential Skills covers specific lower-wage essential occupations. See SID guide.
Subclass 186 Employer NominationDirect Entry stream requires CSOL. Temporary Residence Transition stream has different rules based on prior 482 or SID visa holding. See 186 guide.
Not on the CSOL
Four alternative pathways.
If your occupation is not on the CSOL, standard skilled and employer sponsored pathways close. But other doors stay open.
State and territory lists
Your occupation may be on a state list even if not on the CSOL. Opens the 190 or 491 pathway.
Labour Agreements and DAMAs
Industry labour agreements and DAMAs sometimes cover occupations not on the CSOL. The Northern Territory DAMA is particularly useful.
SID Specialist Skills or alternative codes
If your role pays above the Specialist Skills Income Threshold, the SID Specialist Skills stream may fit regardless of list. Sometimes the same person qualifies under a different ANZSCO code that is on the CSOL.
A single wrong digit in your occupation code can disqualify your entire skilled migration application.
ANZSCO 261311 (Analyst Programmer) and 261313 (Software Engineer) sound similar but have different assessing authority rules, different state nomination access, and different employer sponsored pathways. Accurate occupation selection is the foundation of every skilled migration application.
Common questions
The questions we hear most.
For occupation assessment and ANZSCO selection, book with Sourabh Aggarwal or Gurjeev Bhalla.
How do I find the right ANZSCO code for my job?
Start with your actual duties, not your job title. Match against ANZSCO descriptions carefully. Confirm with the assessing authority. Expert input during consultation prevents costly misclassification.
My occupation was on the SOL but is not on the CSOL. What happened?
The CSOL replaced the SOL and MLTSSL and uses different selection criteria. Some occupations dropped off. Options include state lists, DAMA pathways, or alternative ANZSCO codes that match your skills.
How often does the CSOL change?
Annual reviews with occasional mid-cycle updates for urgent labour market issues. Timing an application around the review cycle can matter.
Does being on the CSOL guarantee I can apply for a visa?
No. The CSOL is one requirement among many. You still need to meet age, English, skills assessment, points (where applicable), and health and character requirements.
Some information on this page has been sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and has been interpreted and approved by Principal Migration Agent Sourabh Aggarwal (MARN 1462159). Last reviewed: May 2026.