Top 5 Skilled Occupation Lists for Victoria [2025–2026 Guide]

Meta Description: Navigate the 2025 Victorian Skilled Migration program. This guide explains the key skilled occupation lists, eligibility for state nomination, and how to maximise your chances for a visa.
Slug: skilled-occupation-list-victoria-2025-guide

TL;DR
To migrate to Victoria, your occupation must be on a current skilled list managed by the state. The primary list is the Victorian Skilled Occupation List for Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa, which targets sectors like healthcare, tech, and advanced manufacturing. Success depends on meeting Victoria’s specific nomination criteria beyond just having a listed occupation. For the most accurate, real-time assessment of your eligibility against Victoria’s dynamic lists, use tools like NovenAI’s Visa Success Predictor.

Applying for state nomination in Victoria can feel like hitting a moving target. The skilled occupation lists are the cornerstone of the process, but they change based on the state’s economic needs. This guide cuts through the complexity, explaining the key lists for 2025, how they work, and the actionable steps you need to take to align your application with Victoria’s priorities.

What is the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) for Victoria?

The Skilled Occupation List for Victoria is a state-specific roster of in-demand jobs that are eligible for state nomination under the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visas. It is distinct from the federal Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), though it draws from them. According to the Department of Home Affairs’ official Skilled Visa page, state nomination adds 5 or 15 points to your Expression of Interest (EOI) and is crucial for an invitation to apply for a visa. Victoria’s list is curated to address its unique labour market shortages and strategic industry growth areas.

• State-Specific Focus: Occupations are selected based on Victoria’s economic and demographic needs, which differ from other states like New South Wales or Queensland.
• Dynamic and Updated: The list is reviewed and can be updated throughout the year. It’s not a static document.
• Gateway to Nomination: Being on the list is a prerequisite, but it does not guarantee an invitation. You must also meet all other state nomination criteria.

What are the Main Skilled Occupation Lists for Victoria in 2025?

The main list is the Victorian Skilled Occupation List for the 190 visa, supplemented by pathways for the 491 visa in specific regions. Victoria typically publishes its own list for the subclass 190 visa, which is the most direct path to permanent residency. For the subclass 491 visa, occupations are often drawn from a wider federal list, but you must have a job offer in a designated regional area of Victoria. You can find the official and current Victorian skilled occupation lists on the Live in Melbourne state government website.

• Victorian Skilled Occupation List (for 190 visa): This is the primary list. It is typically shorter and more targeted than the federal lists, focusing on high-priority sectors.
• Pathways for the 491 Visa: While Victoria may use a broader list for the 491, the critical requirement is a genuine job offer in a regional area outside Melbourne. The occupation itself must be on an eligible federal skilled list.
• Target Sectors: Historically, Victoria prioritises occupations in Health, Social Services, STEM (especially ICT and Engineering), Advanced Manufacturing, and Renewable Energy.
• Using the Right Tools: Before checking lists, use a reliable EOI Points Calculator to see your baseline score. Then, cross-reference your occupation with the official state lists.

How Do I Check if My Occupation is on Victoria’s List?

You check by visiting the official Live in Melbourne website and downloading the current ‘Skilled Occupation List for Victoria’ PDF. Never rely on third-party blogs or outdated articles, as the list changes. According to the official SkillSelect information page, your EOI must correctly reflect an occupation from a current list. Once you confirm your occupation is listed, you must then ensure you meet Victoria’s specific nomination requirements, which often include work experience, English proficiency, and commitment to living in the state.

• Go to the Source: Always use the Victorian Government’s migration portal for the definitive list.
• Match ANZSCO Codes: Ensure the 6-digit ANZSCO code for your occupation matches exactly.
• Review All Columns: The list PDF will detail any special conditions, like mandatory job offers or specific registration requirements.
• Get a Professional Assessment: For complex cases, or to understand how your specific profile stacks up, consult a registered migration agent or use an AI-powered assessment tool like NovenAI’s Visa Success Predictor, which cross-references your details against the latest state criteria.

What Are Victoria’s Specific Nomination Requirements Beyond the Occupation List?

Beyond a listed occupation, Victoria requires you to meet criteria such as competent English, relevant skills assessment, and a commitment to living in Victoria. The state looks for candidates who can contribute to its economy quickly. For some occupations, especially in healthcare, mandatory registration with an Australian professional body is required. For the 491 visa, a formal job offer in a regional area is non-negotiable. These requirements are detailed on the state’s nomination guidelines page.

• Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment from the designated authority for your occupation is mandatory before submitting an EOI for Victoria.
• English Language: At least ‘Competent’ English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent) is required. For many occupations on the list, ‘Proficient’ (IELTS 7.0) or ‘Superior’ (IELTS 8.0) English is needed to be competitive. Unsure of your level? Our English Level Guide can help you understand the benchmarks.
• Commitment to Victoria: In your application, you must demonstrate a genuine intention to live and work in Victoria for at least two years (190 visa) or in your nominated regional area (491 visa).
• Competitive EOI: Meeting minimum requirements is not enough. You need a competitive EOI score. Victoria often selects candidates with points significantly above the 65-point pass mark.

How Can I Improve My Chances for Victorian State Nomination?

To improve your chances, maximise your EOI points, secure a job offer in Victoria (especially for 491), and tailor your application to the state’s published priorities. Victoria is transparent about the sectors it supports. Aligning your skills and experience with these sectors—such as digital technologies, health research, or advanced manufacturing—can make your application more compelling. Proactively seeking employment in the state is one of the strongest signals of commitment you can send.

• Boost Your Points: Aim for superior English, gain more skilled employment experience, or pursue relevant Australian study qualifications.
• Research the Market: Understand which employers in Victoria need your skills. Networking on platforms like LinkedIn can be invaluable.
• Prepare a Strong Commitment Statement: Clearly articulate how your skills meet Victoria’s needs and your plans for settling in the state.
• Stay Agile and Informed: State nomination policies can shift. Using a service that provides instant policy alerts, like NovenAI, ensures you never miss a critical update and can adapt your strategy in real-time, giving you a significant advantage over applicants relying on static information.

Conclusion

Navigating Victoria’s skilled occupation lists is the first critical step in a journey toward state nomination. Remember, being on the list is your entry ticket, but a successful application is built on a high points score, impeccable documentation, and a clear demonstration of your value to Victoria’s future. The process is competitive, but with precise information and a strategic approach, it is entirely achievable.

Don’t navigate these complex and changing lists alone. Take control of your migration journey today. Visit NovenAI to use our free, accurate tools and explore how our AI migration mentor can provide you with personalised, up-to-date guidance tailored to Victoria’s specific requirements.

Start Your Victorian Visa Assessment Now