On the 17th May 2010, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, released a new Skilled Occupation List (SOL), for the purposes of Permanent Residency applications, under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.. The new list will become effective as of 1 July 2010.

Significantly, Hairdressers, Cooks, Chefs, Bakers and Pastry Chefs/Cooks are not contained on the new SOL. While the new SOL has been released, the Minister still has not released the new points test regime, as previously advised.

Existing applications which are currently in process will not be affected. The Department of Immigration has also released a list of FAQ’s regarding the changes to the SOL, which may be found at: SOL Link

Should you require any assistance with any Migration matter, please do not hesitate to contact one of our professional and registered Migration advisers.

TSS Immigration