Top Queensland Skilled Occupation List (QSOL) 2025–2026: Occupations & Eligibility

TL;DR: The Queensland Skilled Occupation List (QSOL) for 2025–2026 lists the specific occupations eligible for state nomination under the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) and Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visas. To apply, you must have an occupation on the QSOL, meet the state’s minimum points and work requirements, and submit an EOI. Use the EOI Points Calculator to check your score first.

What is the Queensland Skilled Occupation List (QSOL)?

The QSOL is the official list of occupations the Queensland Government is actively seeking to fill through its state nomination programs. It’s updated regularly to reflect local labour market needs. Your occupation must be on the QSOL to apply for Queensland nomination.

According to the Department of Home Affairs’ official Skilled Visa page, state nomination is a two-step process: you must first be nominated by a state government (like Queensland) before the Home Affairs department can invite you to apply for the visa. The QSOL is the state’s filter for this first step.

Key facts about the QSOL:

• Separate lists for offshore and onshore applicants: There is a “Queensland Offshore Skilled Occupation List” (QSOL Offshore) for applicants living outside Australia, and a separate list for those already in Queensland (often called the “Working in Queensland” list).
• Updated periodically: The list is not static; it changes based on industry demand, usually announced at the start of the new program year (July).
• Occupation quotas: Even if your occupation is on the list, Queensland may stop accepting new applications for it after reaching a quota cap.
• No occupation ceiling on some lists: Certain occupations on the “Working in Queensland” list (for subclass 491) may not have a ceiling, meaning they are open as long as the program is active.

Which occupations are on the QSOL for 2025–2026?

The specific list for 2025–2026 is expected to be released in July 2025. However, based on recent years, the following occupation categories are typically included:

• Healthcare and Social Assistance: Registered Nurses, General Practitioners, Medical Laboratory Scientists, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, and Social Workers.
• Construction and Trades: Carpenters, Electricians, Plumbers, Bricklayers, and Landscape Architects.
• Engineering: Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, and Engineering Technologists.
• ICT and Digital: Software Engineers, ICT Project Managers, Systems Analysts, Cyber Security (in high demand).
• Education: Early Childhood Teachers, Secondary School Teachers, and Special Needs Teachers.

NovenAI Pro Tip: The QSOL is a fluid document. Instead of waiting for the official PDF, use the Visa Success Predictor to check whether your specific ANZSCO code is likely to appear on the QSOL for 2025–2026, based on current policy trends and historical data.

How do I apply for QLD nomination using the QSOL?

The application process is straightforward but requires precision. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Confirm your occupation: Check the official QSOL PDF on the Queensland Migration website. Ensure your exact ANZSCO code is listed and you meet any specific requirements (e.g., minimum points score, work experience duration).
2. Submit an EOI: You must have a valid Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect with Queensland selected as your preferred state. Your EOI must be accurate and up-to-date.
3. Apply to QLD: Only after you have an EOI ID can you submit a formal application to Queensland Migration via their online portal. You will need to provide evidence of your skills, English language, and financial capacity.
4. Wait for nomination: Queensland processes applications in order of submission. Once nominated, you will receive a SkillSelect invitation to apply for the visa from the Department of Home Affairs.

Important: You cannot directly apply for QQLD nomination without a valid EOI linked to your occupation on the QSOL.

What are the requirements for QSOListed occupations?

The requirements differ based on whether you are applying for the 190 or 491 visa, and whether you are currently in Queensland or offshore.

General minimum requirements (all applicants):

• Points test score: At least 65 (but 75+ is highly recommended for a competitive EOI).
• English language: Competent English (IELTS 6.0) for most occupations, but Proficient or Superior for higher points.
• Skills assessment: A positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority.
• Age: Under 45 at the time of visa grant.

Specific requirements for the QSOL (varies by stream):

• Skilled Nominated (subclass 190):
  • Onshore: You must be currently living and working in Queensland in your nominated (or closely related) occupation for at least 6 months (full-time).
  • Offshore: You usually need a job offer in Queensland in your occupation, plus 3–5 years of post-qualification experience.
• Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491):
  • Onshore: You must be living and working in a regional Queensland area in your nominated occupation for at least 3 months (full-time).
  • Offshore: Typically no job offer required, but you must be committed to living and working in a regional area.

For the most current and detailed requirements, always refer to the official Queensland Migration website.

How does the QSOL differ from the ANZSCO occupation list?

This is a common confusion. The ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) is the national system that defines all occupations in Australia. The QSOL is a subset of ANZSCO occupations that Queensland has chosen to nominate.

• ANZSCO tells you if your job is generally recognised in Australia.
• QSOL tells you if Queensland will sponsor you for that job.

Example: A Marketing Specialist (ANZSCO 225113) is a standard occupation, but if it’s not on the QSOL for 2025–2026, you cannot get state nomination from Queensland for that role.

Using NovenAI to navigate the QSOL

Once your occupation is confirmed, the next step is to build a strong application. This is where many applicants face challenges: understanding how many points they truly have, calculating their English score correctly, and tracking when applications for their occupation are paused.

NovenAI solves these problems directly. Imagine this: You check the QSOL and see “Software Engineer” is on the list. Instead of guessing your EOI score and waiting weeks for a response from a migration agent, you use the free English Level Guide to confirm your IELTS band, then the EOI Points Calculator to instantly calculate your total. NovenAI’s 18 GB+ knowledge base compares your profile against all current QSOL criteria in real-time, flagging any missing documents or low point areas. You can even ask the AI mentor, “What are the chances my 491 visa is selected if my score is 70?” and get a data-driven prediction, not a guess.

Conclusion

The Queensland Skilled Occupation List is your gateway to living and working in the Sunshine State. The key to success is preparation: verify your occupation is on the list, ensure you meet the strict points and work requirements, and submit a flawless EOI.

Don’t leave your migration outcome to chance. Start building your winning strategy today with the right tools. Check your eligibility and predict your visa success now at NovenAI.com.