Points-tested skilled visas
If you meet the relevant requirements, you may be able to apply for skilled migration without employer sponsorship.
EMC Australia / Occupations / ANZSCO 271111
Barrister
Barrister (271111): Plead cases before civil, criminal and industrial courts and other tribunals.
Are you a qualified barrister considering working or settling in Australia? Barrister is an occupation recognised under Australia’s skilled migration program. Depending on your qualifications, experience and personal circumstances, you may be eligible for permanent residency through skilled migration or an employer-sponsored visa. Whether you studied overseas, recently graduated in Australia or already have professional experience, EMC Australia can help you understand which visa pathways may be suitable for you.
ANZSCO
271111
Assessing authority
Skills assessments for Barrister (271111) are handled by the relevant SLAA (State Legal Admissions Authority), which assesses legal qualifications for admission to the legal profession in the relevant state or territory.
Occupation lists
MLTSSL · CSOL
Industry
Legal, social & community
Can I migrate to Australia as a barrister?
Yes. Barrister is an eligible occupation for several Australian skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas. However, being a barrister does not automatically make you eligible for a visa. Your options will depend on factors such as your qualifications, English language ability, age, work experience and skills assessment. Some visas also require an invitation from the Australian Government, state or territory nomination, or sponsorship from an eligible employer. The first step is to identify which pathway best suits your circumstances.
What visa options are available for barristers?
Australian barristers may have several visa options, depending on their personal and professional circumstances.
Employer-sponsored visas
If you have an Australian employer willing to sponsor you, other visa options may be available.
Other pathways
If you have recently completed studies in Australia or are undertaking structured workplace training, other temporary visas may be worth exploring, depending on your eligibility.
Which Australian states nominate barristers?
State or territory nomination may provide another opportunity to pursue skilled migration through subclass 190 or 491. Each Australian state and territory has its own nomination requirements. These can depend on your occupation, current location, employment, qualifications and other circumstances. Some states prioritise applicants who are already living or working locally, while others may consider eligible applicants from overseas. As nomination requirements and available places can change throughout the year, it is important to check the current program before deciding where to apply.
EOI and state nominationHow do I get my barrister skills assessed?
For points-tested skilled migration, you generally need a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation. Barrister skills assessments can be undertaken by one of the recognised assessing authorities: Skills assessments for Barrister (271111) are handled by the relevant SLAA (State Legal Admissions Authority), which assesses legal qualifications for admission to the legal profession in the relevant state or territory.. The assessing authority will review your educational qualifications, the relevant subjects you completed and whether you meet its English language requirements. If you completed your qualifications overseas, you may still qualify, provided they meet the applicable assessment standards. If your studies do not cover all the required areas, you may need additional study before obtaining a positive assessment. Work experience may be assessed separately where relevant, including when you intend to claim points for skilled employment. Understanding these requirements early can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and delays.
- Skills assessments for Barrister (271111) are handled by the relevant SLAA (State Legal Admissions Authority), which assesses legal qualifications for admission to the legal profession in the relevant state or territory.
What affects my eligibility for skilled migration?
For points-tested skilled visas, several factors influence your eligibility and points score. The minimum points threshold is 65, although achieving this score does not guarantee an invitation.
Age
Your age affects your migration points. Points-tested skilled visa applicants generally need to be under 45 when invited to apply.
English
You must meet the applicable English language requirements. Higher English test results may also help you claim additional migration points. The English requirements for your skills assessment may be different from those for your visa.
Skilled employment
Relevant Australian or overseas experience in this occupation may help you claim additional points. Your employment history and supporting evidence must satisfy the applicable requirements.
Qualifications
Recognised educational qualifications can contribute to your points score. Your qualifications and the subjects you studied are also important for your skills assessment.
Australian study and partner
Eligible Australian study, partner qualifications and other recognised factors may increase your points score.
Nomination
State or territory nomination can provide additional points for subclasses 190 and 491. Each nomination program has its own eligibility requirements.
Does my experience match ANZSCO 271111?
Not everyone working in a related position will necessarily qualify under Barrister. For migration purposes, your actual job responsibilities matter more than your position title. Choosing the correct occupation is important before applying for a skills assessment or visa.
- Do the professional work of the nominated occupation, not a neighbouring support role
- Hold or be able to hold the registration or membership the assessing body expects
- Show duties at the right skill level
- NEC occupations need a careful duties match
Frequently asked questions about barrister migration
the relevant SLAA (State Legal Admissions Authority) is the assessing authority for Barrister under code 271111. It assesses legal qualifications for admission to the legal profession in the relevant state or territory.
Our current data places 271111 on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). This links to visa subclasses 189, 190, 491, 482, 186, 494, 485 and 407. Lists change, so EMC Australia confirms the position at the time you apply.
Prepare legal qualifications accepted by the admissions authority and evidence of practice as an advocate. Reference letters should describe duties such as: advise clients and solicitors on prospects and strategy.
Yes, if your actual duties match. Assessors look at what you did — for Barrister, that means work centred on appearing as an advocate in courts and tribunals — rather than your employer's title. If your duties fit a neighbouring code in unit group 2711 better, nominate that instead.
Barristers are commonly employed by independent bar chambers and legal aid commissions. Regional employers may also open 491 or 494 options for 271111.
Not sure which Australian visa is right for you?
Your qualifications and experience may provide opportunities for skilled migration or employer sponsorship, but choosing the right pathway requires careful consideration. At EMC Australia, we can help you understand your available options, identify potential eligibility issues and plan your next steps. Tell us a little about your background through our free visa assessment, or book a consultation to discuss your circumstances with our migration team.