Yes, an invitation is possible — but only through state nomination. Hairdresser, ANZSCO code 391111, appears on the short-term STSOL list under legislative instrument LIN 19/051 (skills assessing authority: TRA) and also on the Core Skills list, but it is not on the MLTSSL. For that reason, an invitation for a subclass 189 or a subclass 491 without nomination is not available, leaving only subclass 190 and subclass 491 with state nomination.
Dr Sirous Ahmadi, Australian migration lawyer with MARA registration number 0854826, considers this one of the most frequently asked questions among applicants in service-based occupations, and he explains that the root of much of the confusion lies in the difference between “not being on a list” and “not being on the MLTSSL”. Hairdressing is formally present on the Department of Home Affairs skilled lists; what it lacks is a place on the MLTSSL — and that single legal point shapes the entire map of visa pathways for this occupation.
The invitation mechanism also matters: states and territories grant “nomination”, and the “invitation” to apply for a subclass 190 or subclass 491 is then issued by the Department through SkillSelect. A hairdresser applicant must therefore first attract the attention of a state; the formal invitation is the next step and rests with the Department.
No state operates a dedicated, pre-defined stream for hairdressers. In Victoria, for example, all occupations appearing on the relevant Department skilled list are eligible to submit an ROI, and a valid skills assessment in the nominated occupation is mandatory; however, selection is discretionary and driven by sector priorities, and Victoria’s 2025–26 program has closed after reaching capacity, with the 2026–27 settings not yet published.
Alongside the points-tested pathway, the presence of hairdressing on the Core Skills list keeps the employer-sponsored door open: the Core Skills stream of the subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) visa, as well as the subclass 186 visa in the Direct Entry stream. Dr Ahmadi also emphasises that practical experience with cases that secured state nomination in past years is professional experience only and should not be treated as a published or guaranteed pathway; the right decision is to build a case that is ready for both nomination and the employer-sponsored route.
If you would like to know which pathway your hairdressing case stands strongest on today, a tailored, one-on-one discussion with Dr Sirous Ahmadi can give you a clear and reassuring picture of your next step.
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This answer reflects the law and policy as verified on October 8, 2026. Immigration rules change frequently — confirm the current position before acting.
Dr. Sirous Ahmadi Registered Migration Agent 0854826
This article is general information only, current at the date shown, and is not legal advice. Do not rely on it for your own situation — immigration law and policy change frequently. Seek advice from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer about your circumstances.