Both Australia and New Zealand introduced sweeping updates to their skilled migration occupation lists. These changes target critical workforce shortages and open new, streamlined pathways for professionals in high-demand sectors like technology, cybersecurity, and aerospace engineering.
Whether you’re an experienced IT professional or an aerospace technician, now is the time to explore these new opportunities for work visas—and in many cases, direct residency.
Australia’s Skilled Visa Reset:
Australia launched the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) to replace older, fragmented lists. A new update expands visa eligibility even further, especially in high-tech and cybersecurity sectors.
These roles now link directly to visa subclasses such as:
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent)
- Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand)
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
New CSOL Additions:
| Occupation | ANZSCO Code | Reason for Inclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Data Analyst | 224114 | High demand in finance, healthcare, and AI sectors |
| Data Scientist | 224115 | Surge in predictive modeling and AI applications |
| Cyber Security Engineer | 261315 | Urgent need to mitigate evolving cyber threats |
| DevOps Engineer | 261316 | Shortage of cloud-native deployment experts |
| Penetration Tester | 261317 | Growing market for ethical hackers |
| Cyber Security Analyst | 262116 | Government and enterprise threat defense |
| Cyber Security Architect | 262117 | Security design strategy needed across industries |
| Cyber Governance Specialist | 262114 | Regulatory and compliance pressure rising |
| Cyber Security Advisor | 262115 | Risk management support for critical infrastructure |
| Cyber Security Ops Coordinator | 262118 | Operational security talent in short supply |
These updates were validated by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), confirming their eligibility for skilled migration routes.
Check Also: Skilled Painter Jobs in Australia – Visa & Relocation Sponsorship
New Zealand’s Green List Expansion:
In 2025, New Zealand updated its Green List of Occupations, a critical list that enables applicants in high-need roles to qualify for fast-tracked residency visas.
New Green List Tier 1 Additions:
| Occupation | ANZSCO Code(s) | Visa Route | Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aeronautical Engineer | 233911 | Straight to Residence | Aviation industry growth |
| Naval Architect | 233916 | Straight to Residence | Demand in marine tech and design |
| ICT Systems/DB Administrator | 262111, 262113 | Straight to Residence | Infrastructure support needs |
| Mechanical Eng. Technician | 312512 | Straight to Residence | Shortage in manufacturing sector |
| Aircraft Maintenance Engineer | 323111–323113 | Straight to Residence | Aging aviation workforce |
| Corrections Officer | 442111 | Work to Residence | Public safety staffing shortages |
Why These Changes Matter?
These updates are more than just new job titles:
- Faster visa processing through priority lists
- Residency opportunities with fewer hurdles
- Labor market testing exemptions in many cases
- Simplified documentation for eligible roles
In Australia, professionals such as Cyber Security Engineers, Data Scientists, and DevOps Engineers can apply for the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) and often transition to permanent residency under subclass 186 within two years.
In New Zealand, Green List roles like Aeronautical Engineers and Aircraft Maintenance Engineers offer Straight to Residence pathways—no job offer required to start your application.
What You Should Do Next?
- Check the Official Lists:
- Get Your Skills Assessed:
- Australia: Contact relevant authorities (e.g., Australian Computer Society)
- New Zealand: Qualifications may need to be evaluated for equivalency
- Speak with a Migration Advisor:
- Registered agents can help with documentation, visa selection, and employer matching
- Join Our Migration Community
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I apply for a work visa without a job offer?
Some visa types, like the Working Holiday Visa, do not require a job offer. However, most work visas, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa, require a valid job offer from an accredited employer.
How do I apply for a work visa?
Applications are typically submitted online through the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs. Each visa type has specific application processes and requirements.
Can I apply for a work visa if I’m over 30?
The Working Holiday Visa is generally available to individuals aged 18–30. However, citizens of certain countries, such as Canada, France, and Ireland, may apply up to the age of 35.
