Discover how solicitors (ANZSCO 271311) qualify for Australia’s skilled migration visas like Subclass 189 and 190. Learn skills assessment, points system, and state nomination pathways.
Introduction
Australia faces a persistent shortage of legal professionals. The Department of Home Affairs lists Solicitor (ANZSCO 271311) on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), opening doors for overseas lawyers. This article explains exactly how the career of a solicitor fits into Australia’s skilled migration framework. You gain clarity on occupation lists, visa options, skills assessment, and points-tested pathways. Start planning your move with confidence.
Understanding the Solicitor Occupation in Migration Lists
Understanding the Solicitor Occupation in Migration Lists Solicitors appear under ANZSCO code 271311. This code covers barristers and solicitors who advise clients, draft documents, and represent them in lower courts. The MLTSSL includes this occupation because demand exceeds local supply in corporate, family, and property law.
The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) also features solicitors for certain regional visas. Earlier, the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) fast-tracked processing during recovery phases, though it no longer applies. Check the current Skilled Occupation List (SOL) on the Home Affairs website for updates. Overseas practitioners must match duties and qualifications to ANZSCO descriptions. A positive skills assessment proves eligibility for General Skilled Migration (GSM) programs.
Visa Pathways Available to Solicitors Three main visas suit solicitors: Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491.
The Subclass 189 visa offers permanent residency without sponsor requirements. Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and score at least 65 points. Invitation rounds prioritize higher points.
The Subclass 190 visa adds five points for state or territory nomination. States like New South Wales and Victoria nominate solicitors who commit to living there for two years.
The Subclass 491 visa provides a provisional pathway with 15 extra points for regional nomination. After three years in a regional area, holders apply for permanent residency via Subclass 191.
All three fall under points-tested streams. Migration points for solicitor experience count up to eight points for three or more years outside Australia, plus five points for Australian experience.
Skills Assessment and Admission Requirements
Skills Assessment and Admission Requirements The Legal Practitioners Admission Board or state Supreme Court assesses qualifications. Applicants submit academic transcripts, evidence of practical training, and proof of good character.
Overseas law degrees require evaluation for comparability to Australian LLB or JD standards. Common law jurisdictions like the UK, New Zealand, and Canada often receive direct recognition. Civil law graduates complete bridging courses, such as the Priestley 11 subjects.
English language proficiency meets the requirement via IELTS (minimum 7.0 overall) or OET (B in each band). The assessing authority issues a letter valid for three years.
After migration, new arrivals apply for Australian Legal Profession Admission. This step involves supervised workplace training—typically two years for overseas practitioners reduced to one year with experience—and character checks.
Conclusion
Solicitors hold a strong position in Australia’s skilled migration framework through MLTSSL listing and multiple visa options. Secure a positive skills assessment, maximize points, and target state nomination. Consult a registered migration agent to lodge your EOI accurately.
