Want PR in Australia? Here’s Why the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) Matters for Nepali Students!

Why the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) Matters

2025-02-03

Australia is one of the most popular destinations for Nepali students seeking higher education and permanent residency (PR). If you’re aiming for PR in Australia, understanding the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is crucial. This list plays a significant role in determining whether your career path aligns with Australia’s workforce demands.

What is the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)?

The SOL is an official list of occupations that are in high demand in Australia. The Australian government updates this list regularly to ensure the country has skilled professionals in critical industries like healthcare, IT, engineering, and trade services. If your occupation is on the SOL, you have a higher chance of securing a visa that leads to PR.

Why PR in Australia is Getting Tougher?

Securing a Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia has always been a goal for many international students, including those from Nepal. However, in recent years, the process has become increasingly challenging due to several policy changes and economic factors. If you're planning to apply for PR, understanding these difficulties can help you strategize better.

1. High Competition for Limited Spots

Australia has a quota-based migration system, meaning only a limited number of PR visas are granted each year. With thousands of international students and skilled workers applying, the competition is tougher than ever.

2. Stricter Points-Based System

Australia’s PR system operates on a points-based system, where factors like age, work experience, education, and English proficiency determine eligibility. In recent years, the minimum points required for invitations have increased, making it harder for applicants to qualify.

Factors Affecting PR Points:

✅ Higher age reduces points

✅ More emphasis on Australian work experience

✅ Preference for applicants with advanced degrees

✅ Strong English language skills required

3. Changes in Skilled Occupation List (SOL)

The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is frequently updated to match Australia's labor market needs. Some previously eligible occupations have been removed, while new ones have been added. If your occupation is no longer in demand, your PR chances decrease.

4. Tougher State and Regional Nomination Requirements

Many applicants rely on state-sponsored visas (Subclass 190 and 491) to gain PR. However, states have tightened their criteria, often prioritizing applicants with:

🔹 More years of experience in Australia

🔹 A job offer in the state

🔹 Higher English proficiency

🔹 Regional work or study experience

5. Increased Preference for Employer-Sponsored Visas

The Australian government is shifting its focus towards employer-sponsored visas, requiring applicants to secure a job with an Australian employer before applying for PR. This adds an extra hurdle, as many students struggle to find relevant jobs in their field.

6. Rising Cost of Living and Migration Policies

The cost of living in Australia has increased significantly, and recent policy changes reflect a more selective migration approach. The government is prioritizing migrants who can contribute immediately to the economy, making PR more competitive.

Why is the SOL Important for Nepali Students?

Many Nepali students come to Australia for education and later seek PR. The SOL helps in:

Choosing the Right Course – If you select a course linked to an in-demand occupation, your PR prospects improve.

Applying for the Right Visa – Certain skilled migration visas (like subclass 189, 190, and 491) require you to nominate an occupation from the SOL.

Earning More Points for PR – Occupations on the SOL can help you qualify for PR under Australia’s points-based immigration system.

Apply for State Nomination – Some states sponsor skilled workers under subclass 190 and 491.

You can also join our Best IT Training Courses in Australia, to become more eligible for PR.

Why Choosing the Right Field is Crucial for PR in Australia

For many international students, including those from Nepal, studying in Australia is not just about getting a degree—it’s also about securing a pathway to Permanent Residency (PR). However, not all degrees lead to PR. Choosing the right field of study is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, as it directly affects your chances of meeting Australia’s migration requirements.

1. Australia’s PR System is Based on Skilled Occupations

Australia follows a Skilled Migration Program, meaning only applicants with skills in demand are eligible for PR. The government updates the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) regularly, removing jobs that are oversupplied and adding those in high demand.

✅ Choosing an occupation from the SOL increases your PR chances

❌ Degrees without demand lead to fewer PR opportunities

2. Some Fields Offer More PR Opportunities Than Others

Certain industries consistently appear on the SOL, making them PR-friendly fields. If you want to improve your PR chances, consider these in-demand professions:

High PR Demand Fields

👨‍⚕️ Healthcare & Nursing → Registered Nurse, Aged Care Worker, Physiotherapist

💻 Information Technology (IT) → Software Engineer, Cyber Security Specialist

🏗️ Engineering → Civil Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer

🔧 Trades → Electrician, Plumber, Chef, Automotive Technician

📊 Accounting & Finance → Accountant, Actuary

🏫 Education & Teaching → Early Childhood Teacher, Secondary School Teacher

Low PR Demand Fields

📢 Marketing, Communications, Journalism

🛎️ Hospitality & Tourism

🎨 Creative Arts & Design

⚖️ Law (unless combined with Australian legal qualifications)

3. Some Degrees Give More PR Points

Australia’s PR system is points-based, meaning you need at least 65 points to be eligible, but most successful applicants score 80+ points. Some degrees offer extra PR points, such as:

STEM & Healthcare degrees (priority fields)

✅ Master’s or PhD qualifications (extra points)

✅ Regional study (if you study in a regional area, you get bonus points)

4. Employers and States Prefer Certain Skills

Many PR pathways require state nomination (Subclass 190/491) or employer sponsorship (Subclass 482). States and employers prioritize critical industries, making some careers more PR-friendly.

💡 Example: A Data Engineer in Melbourne has better PR chances than a business graduate without relevant experience. 

5. Future-Proofing Against Policy Changes

Australian migration policies change frequently. A degree that is in demand today may not be on the SOL in the future. Choosing a stable and essential field (such as healthcare, IT, or engineering) reduces the risk of your profession becoming obsolete in the migration system.

How to Choose the Right Field for PR?

✔️ Check the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) before enrolling

✔️ Prioritize in-demand fields like healthcare, IT, engineering, or trades

✔️ Consider regional study for extra PR points

✔️ Gain relevant work experience to strengthen your PR application

✔️ Stay updated on PR policy changes

How to Improve Your PR Chances?

• Select the Right Course – Research courses that align with the SOL.

• Improve Your English Proficiency – Higher IELTS/PTE scores give you more PR points.

• Gain Work Experience – Work experience in your field boosts your application.

• Apply for State Nomination – Some states sponsor skilled workers under subclass 190 and 491.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a Nepali student dreaming of PR in Australia, the Skilled Occupation List should guide your study and career choices. With the right strategy, networking, and skill development, you can fast-track your journey to a job and PR in Australia!

Always stay updated with changes in the SOL and plan strategically for a successful future in Australia!

🚀 Need expert help? Consult a migration or career specialist today!

FAQs on Why the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) Matters for Nepali Students!

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about how the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) affects Nepali students seeking PR in Australia.

Q. Why is the SOL Important for Nepali Students?

A. If your field of study is on the SOL, you may be eligible for skilled migration visas, such as:

✅ Subclass 189 (Independent Skilled Visa)

✅ Subclass 190 (State-Sponsored Visa)

✅ Subclass 491 (Regional Work Visa)

If your occupation is not on the SOL, you may have to explore alternative PR pathways.

Q. What is the Difference Between Subclass 189, 190, and 491 Visas?

A. These visas are part of Australia’s Skilled Migration program, but they have different requirements:

Visa TypePoints-Based?State Nomination?Work LocationLeads to PR?
Subclass 189✅ Yes❌ NoAnywhere in Australia✅ Yes
Subclass 190✅ Yes✅ YesSpecific state/territory✅ Yes
Subclass 491✅ Yes✅ YesRegional areas only🔄 Yes (after 3 years)

💡 Tip: Subclass 491 (regional visa) is easier to get and leads to PR after 3 years!

Q. What If My Course Is Not on the SOL?

A. If your occupation is not on the SOL, you can still explore PR through:

🔹 Employer sponsorship (Subclass 482, 186)

🔹 Regional visas (Subclass 491)

🔹 State-nominated occupations (Subclass 190)

🔹 Further studies in a PR-friendly field

💡 Example: A business graduate could take a short course in Commercial Cookery to become a chef—a job on the SOL.

Q. How Many PR Points Do I Need for Skilled Migration?

A. To qualify for PR under General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas, you need at least 65 points. However, higher scores (80-90 points) increase your chances of getting an invitation.

PR Points System:

🎓 Age (Maximum 30 points) → Best if you apply before age 25-32

📚 Education (Up to 20 points) → Extra points for Master’s/PhD

🗣️ English Proficiency (Up to 20 points) → High IELTS/PTE scores help

👨‍💼 Work Experience (Up to 20 points) → More points for Australian work experience

📍 Regional Study (5-15 points) → Studying in regional areas gives bonus points

💡 Tip: Improve your English score (IELTS/PTE) and gain Australian work experience for extra PR points!

Q. Can I Switch to a PR-Friendly Course After Arriving in Australia?

A. ✅ Yes! If your current course does not lead to PR, you can:

🔹 Change your course to a PR-friendly field

🔹 Apply for a second degree or diploma

🔹 Gain work experience in an in-demand industry

💡 Tip: Before switching, check with a migration agent to ensure your new course is PR-friendly.

Q. What Are Alternative PR Pathways Besides SOL?

A. If your job is not on the SOL, consider these alternative pathways:

🔹 Employer-Sponsored PR (Subclass 186, 482) → Find a company to sponsor you

🔹 State Nomination (Subclass 190, 491) → Some states have different occupation lists

🔹 Graduate Work Visa (Subclass 485) → Gain Australian work experience

🔹 Business or Investment Visas (Subclass 188, 888) → If you plan to start a business

💡 Tip: Look for jobs in regional areas where lower PR points are required.

Q. How Often Does the SOL Change?

A. The SOL is updated every year based on Australia’s job market needs. Some occupations may be removed, and new ones may be added.

💡 Tip: If your occupation is on the list now, apply for PR as soon as possible before policy changes!