Ever wondered how Australia decides who gets invited to migrate? The Australian immigration process can seem mysterious at first, but at its core is a points-based system designed to assess applicants’ skills, qualifications, and other personal attributes. In this article, we break down the Australian Immigration Points System, explain how to calculate your points, and offer tips on how to improve your score. Whether you’re interested in using an Australia Visa Points Calculator or simply want to know more about Australian Immigration Requirements, this guide is your comprehensive resource for understanding the migration points system.
Key Takeaways:
- Minimum Requirement: You must score at least 65 points to be eligible for Australia’s skilled migration visas.
- Core Factors: Age, English proficiency, work experience, and educational qualifications form the foundation of the points system.
- Bonus Points: Additional points can be earned through Australian study, regional qualifications, specialist education, partner skills, accredited community language, and professional year programs.
- Regular Updates: The system is dynamic, with frequent changes to meet current economic and social needs.
- Improvement Strategies: Enhancing your English score, gaining additional work experience, upgrading your qualifications, and leveraging regional or partner opportunities can help increase your score.
Italics Note: Remember, each point matters. Focus on the areas where you can make improvements, and use tools like the Australia Visa Points Calculator to monitor your progress.
What Is the Australian Immigration Points System
The History and Evolution of Australia’s Points System
- Early Beginnings: In 1972, the Labor Government began granting visas based on personal attributes rather than ethnicity.
- Formalization: By 1989, Australia had formalized a points-based immigration system similar in concept to systems later adopted in Canada and New Zealand.
- Continuous Updates: The system has been tweaked over time to reflect the changing needs of the Australian labour market, making it one of the most dynamic migration models in the world.
“Australia’s immigration policy has been refined continuously to ensure that migrants can make a significant contribution to its economy and society,”
Key Factors in the Australian Immigration Points System
- Age
- English Language Proficiency
- Work Experience (Overseas and in Australia)
- Educational Qualifications
- Australian Educational Qualifications and Regional Study
- Specialist Educational Qualifications
- Partner and Community Language Skills
- Professional Year Programs
| Criteria | Maximum Points | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 30 | Younger applicants (25-32 years) score highest |
| English Language Proficiency | 20 | Higher IELTS or equivalent scores earn more points |
| Work Experience (Overseas + Australia) | 20 | Points awarded based on duration of skilled work experience |
| Educational Qualifications | 20 | Highest qualification only (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) |
| Australian Educational Qualification | 5 | Points if studied for at least 2 years in Australia |
| Regional Study | 5 | Bonus points for studying in designated regional areas |
| Specialist Education Qualification | 10 | For research-based Master’s or Doctorate degrees |
| Partner Skills | 10 | Based on spouse/de facto partner’s skills and language ability |
| Accredited Community Language | 5 | If you’re accredited in a community language by NAATI |
| Professional Year Program | 5 | Completion of an approved program in Australia |
How to Calculate Your Points: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Determine Your Age Score
Your age is a significant factor in the points system. Different age bands yield different points:
- 25 to 32 years: Maximum points (typically 30)
- 18 to 24 years and 33 to 39 years: Fewer points than the prime age bracket
- 40 to 44 years: Even fewer points
- Over 45 years: Typically 0 points
Step 2: Assess Your English Language Ability
You will need to prove your proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. The scores are categorized as:
- Competent English: 0 points (minimum requirement)
- Proficient English: 10 points
- Superior English: 20 points
Step 3: Evaluate Your Work Experience
Both overseas and Australian work experience are considered. The total maximum you can claim is 20 points. Points are awarded based on the number of years you have worked full-time (at least 20 hours per week) in your nominated occupation.
Step 4: Review Your Educational Qualifications
Points for education are awarded based on your highest qualification:
- Doctorate (PhD): 20 points
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree: 15 points
- Diploma or trade qualification: 10 points
Step 5: Australian Study and Regional Points
If you have studied in Australia for a period of at least 2 years, you can claim additional points:
- Australian Educational Qualification: 5 points
- Regional Study Bonus: 5 points
Step 6: Additional Bonus Points
Don’t forget points for:
- Specialist Educational Qualifications: Up to 10 points for research-based degrees.
- Partner Skills: Up to 10 points if your spouse or de facto partner meets specific criteria.
- Accredited Community Language: 5 points if you have NAATI accreditation.
- Professional Year Program: 5 points for completing a recognized program.
Step 7: Add Up Your Points
Using an Australia Visa Points Calculator online, input your details to see if your total meets the minimum of 65 points. Remember, a score above 65 increases your chances but does not guarantee an invitation.
Tip: Keep a record of your scores for each category. This helps you identify which areas may need improvement if you plan to reapply or upgrade your skills later.
Age and Its Impact on Points
Age Bands and Points Allocation
Age is one of the most straightforward yet critical factors in the points test. Here’s how different age bands are scored:
- 18 to 24 years: Generally, around 25 points are awarded.
- 25 to 32 years: Applicants in this range receive the highest points—up to 30 points.
- 33 to 39 years: Typically receive 25 points.
- 40 to 44 years: Awarded 15 points.
- 45 and over: Generally receive no points.
| Age Range | Points Awarded |
|---|---|
| 18–24 | 25 |
| 25–32 | 30 |
| 33–39 | 25 |
| 40–44 | 15 |
| 45 and over | 0 |
English Language Proficiency Requirements and Points
Understanding IELTS and Other Tests
English proficiency is assessed through standardized tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. Here’s what you need to know:
- Competent English: This is the minimum requirement (e.g., an IELTS score of 6 in each component). No points are awarded, but you must meet this standard to apply.
- Proficient English: Generally requires a score of at least 7 in each component (awards 10 points).
- Superior English: Requires higher scores (typically at least 8 in each component) and awards 20 points.
Quick List: English Language Points
- Competent English: 0 points
- Proficient English: 10 points
- Superior English: 20 points
Quote:
“A strong command of English not only boosts your points score but also improves your employability in Australia.” – Immigration Expert
For further details on Understanding Australian Visa Points in the language domain, refer to the official requirements provided by the Department of Home Affairs.
Work Experience Points: Overseas and In Australia
Work experience is a vital component of the points system and is assessed separately for overseas and Australian employment.
Overseas Work Experience
Points are awarded based on the number of years you have worked in your nominated occupation (or a closely related one) outside Australia.
Overseas Work Experience Points
| Years of Experience | Points Awarded |
|---|---|
| Less than 3 years | 0 |
| 3 to 4 years | 5 |
| 5 to 7 years | 10 |
| 8 years or more | 15 |
Australian Work Experience
Similarly, Australian work experience is critical. The more years you have worked in Australia, the higher your score.
Australian Work Experience Points
| Years of Experience | Points Awarded |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 year | 0 |
| 1 to 2 years | 5 |
| 3 to 4 years | 10 |
| 5 to 7 years | 15 |
| 8 years or more | 20 |
Bold Tip:
Ensure that your work experience meets the minimum full-time requirement (at least 20 hours per week) to be counted.
List of Considerations:
- Verify that your occupation aligns with those on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Maintain documented evidence (like reference letters and contracts) of your work history.
- Make sure your work experience is within the past 10 years, as required by the system.
Educational Qualifications and Points
Educational qualifications play a major role in the points calculation. The points awarded depend on your highest level of education.
Recognized Qualifications
- Doctorate Degree (PhD): 20 points
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: 15 points
- Diploma or Trade Qualification: 10 points
- No Recognized Qualification: 0 points
Educational Points Breakdown
| Qualification | Points Awarded |
|---|---|
| Doctorate Degree (PhD) | 20 |
| Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree | 15 |
| Diploma or Trade Qualification | 10 |
| Other Award Recognized by Assessing Authority | 10 |
| No Recognized Qualifications | 0 |
Additional Educational Bonuses
- Australian Educational Qualification:
If you have studied in Australia for at least 2 years (a CRICOS-registered course), you can claim an extra 5 points. - Regional Study Bonus:
Studying and living in designated regional areas may yield an additional 5 points. - Specialist Education Qualification:
If you have completed a research-based Master’s or Doctorate that includes at least 2 academic years, you may earn up to 10 additional points.
Even if you have a degree from overseas, consider upgrading your qualifications through further study in Australia to earn extra points.
Additional Points: Regional Study, Specialist Education, and Professional Year
In addition to the core criteria, there are bonus points available that can help you reach the threshold more easily.
Regional Study and Stay
Studying and living in designated regional areas not only enhances your living experience in Australia but also adds valuable points:
- Regional Study Bonus: 5 points
Specialist Education Qualification
For those who have pursued a research-based degree (Master’s by research or Doctorate) from an Australian institution:
- Specialist Education Points: Up to 10 points
Professional Year Program
Completing an approved professional year in Australia (in fields such as accounting, engineering, or IT) can give you:
- Professional Year Bonus: 5 points
Bullet List of Additional Bonuses:
- Australian Educational Qualification: +5 points
- Regional Study: +5 points
- Specialist Education: Up to +10 points
- Professional Year: +5 points
These additional points can make the difference between meeting the minimum requirement and significantly boosting your score to stand out in the pool.
Partner and Community Language Points
Your spouse or de facto partner’s qualifications can also contribute to your total points.
Partner Skills
If your partner is also applying and meets the following criteria, you can earn:
- Full Partner Points: 10 points if your partner meets the age, English, and skills assessment requirements.
- Reduced Partner Points: 5 points if your partner only meets the basic English requirement.
Accredited Community Language
If you have accreditation in a community language (for example, through NAATI), you can claim:
- Community Language Bonus: 5 points
Bold Reminder:
Ensure that all documentation regarding your partner’s qualifications and language tests are up to date and verified by the appropriate authorities.
Different Visa Subclasses and Their Points Requirements
Australia offers several visa subclasses under the skilled migration program. Each subclass has specific points criteria and sponsorship requirements.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Overview: This is a points-tested visa that does not require sponsorship by an employer or family member.
- Points Requirement: A minimum of 65 points is required, though in practice higher scores improve your chances of an invitation.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Overview: Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government.
- Additional Nomination Points: Nomination awards additional points (typically +5 points) on top of your core score.
- Eligibility: Your occupation must be on the relevant state’s occupation list.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
- Overview: Requires either nomination by a state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible family member in a designated regional area.
- Points Benefits: This subclass awards extra points for regional sponsorship.
- Purpose: It offers a pathway to permanent residency if you live and work in a regional area.
Other Visa Options
While the above are the most common for skilled migration, other visas such as the Temporary Work Visa (Subclass 482) and Job Seeker Points for Australian Visa exist. Each visa type has its own set of Australia Visa Requirements and may or may not use the points test.
Italicized Example:
For example, if you are a skilled worker with no state nomination, you might apply under subclass 189. However, if you have a family member in a regional area, subclass 491 might be a better fit.
You may be interested in: CRS Tool Canada | Your Key to Navigating Immigration
Changes and Updates to the Australian Immigration Points System
The Australian immigration points system is not static. It is reviewed regularly to align with current economic needs and labour market conditions.
Recent Changes
- Adjustments to Age Limits: There have been discussions about revising the age bands to reflect workforce trends.
- Language Test Updates: With evolving language assessment standards, points awarded for English language proficiency may change.
- Work Experience Weighting: The balance between overseas and Australian work experience is sometimes recalibrated.
Future Prospects
The Department of Home Affairs periodically releases updates and discussion papers that suggest further reforms. For instance, recent proposals have aimed at refining how points are awarded for qualifications and work experience. Stay tuned to official publications and reputable immigration websites for the latest Changes to Australian Immigration Points.
Quote:
“Keeping abreast of the latest changes to the points system can significantly influence your immigration strategy.” – Department of Home Affairs Discussion Paper
Pro Tip:
Regularly check the official Australian government website or consult an immigration expert to get the most current information on any modifications.
Tips for Increasing Your Points Score for an Australian Visa
If your current score is below the ideal or you want to improve your chances, here are some actionable tips:
Improve Your English Score
- Take Additional Language Classes: Enroll in intensive English courses.
- Practice Regularly: Utilize online resources and practice tests for IELTS or PTE Academic.
- Consider Retaking the Test: A higher score can net you up to 20 points, so preparation is key.
Gain Additional Work Experience
- Extend Your Work Experience: If possible, accumulate more years of experience in your nominated occupation.
- Document Your Experience: Maintain detailed records and obtain proper references to prove your work history.
Upgrade Your Qualifications
- Pursue Further Education: Consider enrolling in a course in Australia to gain additional points.
- Specialist Degrees: Obtaining a research-based Master’s or Doctorate can add significant points.
Leverage Partner and Regional Opportunities
- Partner’s Skills: Encourage your partner to improve their English or obtain a skills assessment if eligible.
- Regional Study: Studying and living in a designated regional area can provide bonus points.
Utilize a Points Calculator
- Online Tools: Regularly use an Australia Visa Points Calculator to gauge where you stand and identify gaps.
- Professional Guidance: Consider consulting an immigration agent for personalized advice.
Bold Reminder:
Each extra point can make a substantial difference in your invitation odds. Focus on areas that you can realistically upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points do I need to immigrate to Australia?
To immigrate to Australia under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, applicants must meet the minimum points requirement set by the Australian government. The GSM program uses a points-based system called SkillSelect, which evaluates candidates based on various criteria such as age, English language proficiency, skilled employment experience, educational qualifications, and other factors.
Minimum Points Requirement
You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible for a visa under the General Skilled Migration program in Australia.
This threshold applies to several visa subclasses within the GSM program, including but not limited to:
- Subclass 189: Skilled Independent Visa
- Subclass 190: Skilled Nominated Visa
- Subclass 491: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
Applicants who score at least 65 points are eligible to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. However, meeting the minimum requirement does not guarantee an invitation to apply for a visa. Higher scores improve your chances of receiving an invitation because invitations are issued based on ranking and demand for specific occupations.
How Are Points Awarded?
The points you earn depend on several factors:
1. Age
Points are awarded based on your age at the time of application:
- 18–24 years: 25 points
- 25–32 years: 30 points (highest scoring range)
- 33–39 years: 25 points
- 40–44 years: 15 points
- 45+ years: No points
2. English Language Proficiency:
Points are determined by your performance in an approved English test like IELTS or PTE:
- Superior English (e.g., IELTS score of at least 8 in each band): 20 points
- Proficient English (e.g., IELTS score of at least 7 in each band): 10 points
- Competent English (minimum eligibility level): No additional points
3. Skilled Employment Experience:
Points are awarded for work experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related field:
- Outside Australia:
- Less than three years: No points
- Three to five years: 5 points
- Five to eight years: 10 points
- Eight or more years: 15 points
In Australia:
- Less than one year: No points
- One to three years: 5 points
- Three to five years: 10 points
- Five to eight years: 15 points
- Eight or more years: 20 points
4. Educational Qualifications:
Points are awarded based on your highest qualification:
- Doctorate from an Australian institution or equivalent overseas qualification: 20 points
- Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree from an Australian institution or equivalent overseas qualification: 15 points
- Diploma or trade qualification completed in Australia or recognized overseas qualification equivalent to Australian standards: 10 points
5. Additional Factors:
Additional criteria can help boost your total score:
- Australian study requirement (two-year course): +5 points
- Regional study in low-population areas of Australia: +5 points
- Community language skills certified by NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters): +5 points
- Spouse/partner skills meeting basic requirements for age, English proficiency, and occupation assessment: +5–10 additional bonus depending on partner’s qualifications
- Completion of a Professional Year Program in Australia within the last four years related to your nominated occupation: +5 Points
6. State/Territory Nomination or Sponsorship:
For certain visas like Subclass 190 and Subclass 491:
- Nomination by a state/territory government under Subclass 190 adds +5 Points.
- Regional sponsorship under Subclass 491 adds +15 Points.
Key Considerations
- While achieving the minimum threshold of 65 Points is mandatory, higher scores significantly increase your chances of being invited due to competition among applicants.
- Occupation ceilings may also affect invitations; some occupations have higher demand and therefore require higher scores.
- Regular updates occur regarding Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), and Regional Occupation List (ROL). Ensure that your nominated occupation is listed.
Top Three Authoritative Sources Used in Answering This Question:
- Australian Department of Home Affairs: The official government body responsible for immigration policies, visa applications, and regulations related to Australia’s General Skilled Migration program.
- National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI): The organization that certifies community language skills required for earning additional migration-related skill assessment bonus points.
- Workpermit.com: A trusted platform offering detailed guidance on immigration processes worldwide with over two decades of expertise specifically focused on skilled migration programs like Australia’s GSM system.
Can I get PR with 70 points in Australia?
Understanding the Points System for Australian PR
The Australian General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, which includes the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa), Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa), and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa), operates on a points-based system. Applicants must meet a minimum points threshold to be eligible for an invitation to apply for permanent residency (PR). The points are calculated based on various factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and other criteria.
The minimum eligibility score to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) is 65 points, but this does not guarantee an invitation. Invitations are issued based on demand for specific occupations listed in the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), or Regional Occupation List (ROL). Higher scores improve your chances of receiving an invitation because applicants with higher points are prioritized.
Likelihood of Receiving an Invitation with 70 Points
- Historical Trends and Current Competition:
- In recent years, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, competition for skilled migration visas has increased significantly. While the minimum eligibility score remains at 65 points, most invitations have been issued to applicants with much higher scores.
- For example:
- In fields like healthcare (e.g., nurses or doctors) or critical sectors such as IT and engineering, invitations have been extended to applicants with scores closer to 90 or above.
- For occupations with lower demand or less competition, some applicants have received invitations with scores around 70–80 points, but this is becoming increasingly rare.
- Occupation-Specific Factors:
- Your occupation plays a critical role in determining whether you can receive an invitation at 70 points. Each occupation has its own level of demand and cutoff score.
- For high-demand occupations like software engineers, accountants, or ICT professionals, it is unlikely that a score of 70 will secure an invitation due to intense competition.
- However, if your occupation is less competitive or falls under critical skills categories prioritized by the government (e.g., healthcare workers), you may have a better chance even with 70 points.
- State-Sponsored Visas:
- If you are applying for a Subclass 190 visa (state-nominated PR) or Subclass 491 visa (regional nomination), states may invite candidates with lower scores than those required for the Subclass 189 visa.
- Some states prioritize applicants who commit to living and working in regional areas or who meet specific state requirements. With 70 points plus state nomination bonus points (+5 for Subclass 190 or +15 for Subclass 491), your total score could increase significantly.
- Current Economic Conditions and Policy Changes:
- Post-pandemic economic recovery efforts have led Australia to focus on attracting migrants in critical skill shortage areas. This means that even if you meet the minimum point threshold of 65–70 points, your chances depend heavily on whether your occupation aligns with Australia’s current labor market needs.
- As of now (2025), many occupations require at least 80–90 points for competitive selection under the Subclass 189 visa.
Benefits of Increasing Your Score Beyond 70
- Higher Scores Are Prioritized:
- SkillSelect ranks EOIs based on total points scored. Applicants with higher scores are invited first during each round until quotas are filled.
- By increasing your score from 70 to 80, you move ahead of other candidates in the same occupational category who have lower scores.
- Improved Chances Across All Visa Categories:
- A higher score not only improves your prospects under the Subclass 189 visa but also makes you more competitive for state nominations under Subclass 190 and regional nominations under Subclass 491.
- Flexibility in Choosing States/Regions:
- Some states prefer applicants who demonstrate strong English skills or other desirable attributes reflected in their EOI score. Achieving superior English proficiency could make you eligible for additional opportunities across multiple states.
Is 75 a good score for a 190 visa in Australia?
Eligibility and Competitiveness of 75 Points for Subclass 190 Visa
- State Nomination Requirements: Each state has its own occupation list and point thresholds. Some states may prioritize applicants with higher scores or specific skills in demand.
- Occupation Demand: If your nominated occupation is highly sought after in a particular state, you may have better chances even with 75 points.
- Invitation Rounds: States often invite candidates with higher scores first, so while 75 points is competitive, applicants with higher scores might be prioritized.
- Additional Factors: Other factors like regional work experience, study in Australia, or family sponsorship can improve your chances.
Can I move to Australia with 75 points?
Eligibility for Subclass 189 Visa
Alternatives with 75 Points
- State-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 190 and 491): With 75 points, you may have better chances of securing a state-sponsored visa. These visas require nomination from an Australian state or territory and often have lower point thresholds compared to the Subclass 189 visa.
- Improving Your Points: Consider increasing your score by improving English proficiency, gaining additional work experience, or pursuing further education.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Points System
In summary, understanding the Australian Immigration Points System is crucial for anyone considering migration to Australia. By breaking down the system into its core components—age, language proficiency, work experience, education, and additional bonus categories—you can determine your eligibility and identify areas for improvement. Whether you are planning to apply for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), or Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491), knowing how to score points is your first step toward realizing your dream of migration.
Australia’s points system is designed not only to select candidates who meet the country’s current labour market needs but also to ensure that migrants can integrate well into Australian society. The system’s flexibility allows applicants to improve their scores over time—making it a dynamic tool for those looking to build a future in Australia.
As one immigration expert put it, “Understanding and effectively navigating the points system is the key to a successful Australian migration journey.”
With the right preparation and a clear understanding of each component, you can confidently apply for an Australian visa. Stay informed about any changes to the system, continually work on improving your profile, and consider professional guidance if needed. The path to migration may be challenging, but with the right strategy, your goal of living and working in Australia can become a reality.
