Every occupation in ANZSCO carries a skill level from 1 to 5. Level 1 is the highest. Level 5 is the lowest. The number tells you the kind of qualification or experience the occupation typically requires. It also tells you which visa pathways consider it a “skilled” occupation at all.
If you do not know your skill level, find your 6-digit code first and it will be on the occupation page.
The five levels at a glance
| Level | Typical entry point | ANZSCO major groups |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bachelor degree or higher | Managers (1), Professionals (2) |
| 2 | Associate degree, Advanced Diploma, Diploma | Part of Managers (1), Technicians and Trades Workers (3) |
| 3 | AQF Certificate III or higher, plus relevant experience, or AQF Certificate IV | Technicians and Trades Workers (3), Community and Personal Service Workers (4) |
| 4 | AQF Certificate II or III | Community and Personal Service Workers (4), Clerical and Administrative Workers (5), Machinery Operators and Drivers (7) |
| 5 | Compulsory secondary school, or short on-the-job training | Sales Workers (6), Labourers (8) |
The entry point is a guide, not a hard rule. The ABS sets the level based on the typical qualification for the occupation in Australia and New Zealand. Your own qualifications may be higher or lower.
Level 1: Software Engineer (261313)
Software Engineer (261313) is a level 1 occupation. Entry typically requires a bachelor degree or higher in computer science or a related field.
Level 1 covers all Professionals (major group 2) and most Managers (major group 1). Doctors, engineers, accountants, teachers, and nurses all sit at this level.
Other level 1 examples in our database: Civil Engineer (233211), General Practitioner (253111), Nurse Practitioner (254411), Developer Programmer (261312).
Level 2: ICT Customer Support Officer (313112)
ICT Customer Support Officer (313112) is a level 2 occupation. Entry typically requires an associate degree, advanced diploma, or diploma.
Level 2 sits between degree-holders and trade-qualified workers. It covers many technician roles: medical technicians, engineering technicians, and ICT support roles.
Other level 2 examples: Architectural Draftsperson (312111), Civil Engineering Technician (312212), Medical Laboratory Technician (311213), Hardware Technician (313111).
Level 3: Electrician (General) (341111)
Electrician (General) (341111) is a level 3 occupation. Entry typically requires a Certificate III or IV, usually through an apprenticeship.
This is the level of most trade qualifications. Carpenters, plumbers, mechanics, and cooks are all in this band.
Other level 3 examples: Motor Mechanic (General) (321211), Child Care Worker (421111), Carpenter (331212), Plumber (General) (334116).
Level 4: Aged or Disabled Carer (423111)
Aged or Disabled Carer (423111) is a level 4 occupation. Entry typically requires a Certificate II or III.
Level 4 covers many community service, hospitality, and clerical support roles. These occupations need formal training, but less than a full trade qualification.
Other level 4 examples: Bar Attendant (431111), Hospital Orderly (423311), Dental Assistant (423211), Prison Officer (442111).
Level 5: Domestic Cleaner (811311)
Domestic Cleaner (811311) is a level 5 occupation. Entry typically requires compulsory secondary school, or short on-the-job training only.
Level 5 is Labourers (major group 8) and most Sales Workers (major group 6). These roles need no formal post-school qualification.
Other level 5 examples: Builder’s Labourer (821111), Kitchenhand (851311), Sales Assistant (General) (621111).
Why skill level matters for migration
Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) occupations must sit at levels 1 to 3 as a minimum starting point. Level 4 and 5 occupations generally do not appear on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
New Zealand’s Green List also refers to ANZSCO skill levels: the Immigration New Zealand skill level guide explains how skill levels map to the work visa framework.
Skill level is one factor. Shortage ratings and list membership are separate questions. An occupation can be level 1 and still not be on any skill list. Check both on your occupation’s page in our database.
Confirm your level
Each occupation page on anzscofinder shows the skill level, the lists it is on, and the primary source. Browse all occupations or paste your CV into the matcher if you are unsure which code fits your work.
For advice on which visa applies to your situation, speak to a registered migration agent. We show you the facts. The advice is theirs to give.
Sources
- Australian Bureau of Statistics: ANZSCO 2022 → As of 03 Jul 2025
- Immigration New Zealand: find your ANZSCO skill level → As of 03 Jul 2025
- Home Affairs: skill occupation list → As of 03 Jul 2025