Sonographer (ANZSCO 251214): code, lists, and assessment authority

Sonographer, ANZSCO 251214

Sonographer is ANZSCO code 251214, skill level 1. The job: operates ultrasound equipment to acquire, interpret, and selectively record anatomical images and physiological information for medical diagnostic purposes, working alongside medical practitioners.

The classification sits within the Medical Imaging Professionals group (2512) under the broader ANZSCO structure. Skill level 1 means the occupation is benchmarked to a bachelor degree or higher, or at least five years of relevant experience. The ABS ANZSCO 2022 classification is the definitive reference for how the code is defined.

Skills assessment

The assessing authority for Sonographer is the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA) via AHPRA. The occupation page carries the current assessment details and any authority updates, so check it before you apply.

Visa lists

Sonographer appears on two Australian skilled occupation lists, both administered by the Department of Home Affairs.

Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Being on the MLTSSL opens pathways to longer-term permanent residence visas, including the subclass 189 (Skilled Independent, points-tested) and subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated). The subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme, Direct Entry stream) is accessible via the CSOL, not the MLTSSL. The current MLTSSL is the official source. Check it before you lodge.

Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). The CSOL is the list used for the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482). Appearing here means an employer can sponsor you under that stream, subject to salary and other requirements. The current CSOL is on the same Home Affairs page.

List membership opens a pathway. It is not a guarantee of assessment success or visa approval.

Shortage rating. We do not have a verified 2025 Occupation Shortage List rating for this code. The current rating is on the Sonographer occupation page, linked from the Jobs and Skills Australia source. The shortage rating is a separate measure from list membership. A code can appear on the MLTSSL without having a particular shortage rating, and vice versa. Keep the two separate when you read your results.

Near-miss codes

Medical imaging covers several close occupations. If you are not sure which code fits you, check these two first.

Medical Diagnostic Radiographer (251211) uses X-ray and CT equipment. Sonographers use ultrasound. Different equipment, different code.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist (251213) works with radioactive materials to produce images of how organs function. Again, a different imaging method from ultrasound.

All three sit in the Medical Imaging Professionals group (2512) under the ANZSCO classification.

Find your code

If you are not sure Sonographer is the right match, browse all ANZSCO occupations to compare. You can also paste your CV into the anzscofinder CV matcher and it will show you the closest codes.

This page is information only. For advice on which visa to apply for, a registered migration agent can review your individual situation and circumstances.