AUSTRALIAN POINTS SYSTEM
The points system for Australian skilled visas.
HOW AUSTRALIA SELECTS QUALIFIED MIGRANTS
Australia manages its skilled migration program through a transparent, performance-based points system. This points system applies to the visas of the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program – that is, to applicants who want to live and work in Australia permanently based on their skills – without needing sponsorship from an Australian employer.
The aim of the system is to assess applicants using objective criteria and ensure that invitations are issued to those who can make the strongest contribution to the Australian labour market. Points are based on measurable factors such as age, education, work experience, English language proficiency and partner qualifications. The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation or nomination for an Australian visa.
Questions? We have
the answers!
- Relevant visa categories
The points system applies to the following visa subclasses within General Skilled Migration:
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) – not tied to an employer or state
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – with nomination by an Australian state or territory
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) – with nomination for a regional area outside the major cities
- How the points test works
Anyone who meets the formal requirements (relevant occupation on the Skilled Occupation List, positive skills assessment, maximum age under 45 years) may submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Once you reach the minimum score of 65 points, you will enter the selection pool.
The Australian Government and the individual states issue invitations to applicants from this pool on a regular basis, based on the information provided in the EOI and aligned with current labour market needs.
THE CRITERIA IN THE POINTS TEST
The Australian points system evaluates a range of personal and professional factors. Each factor is assigned a set number of points – the higher your qualifications and experience, the more points you can achieve.
- Age
Applicants aged between 18 and 45 receive age-based points.
- Education & qualifications
Points are awarded for recognised qualifications and higher education degrees. The higher the degree, the more points.
- Work experience
Relevant and skilled work experience from the past 10 years is assessed – separately for Australian and overseas experience.
- Australian qualifications
Qualifications obtained in Australia attract additional points, particularly if they were completed in regional Australia.
- Professional Year
Graduates of a recognised Professional Year program in Australia (e.g. Accounting, IT or Engineering) receive extra points.
- English language skills
Points are awarded for English skills above the minimum level of Competent English.
- Partner qualifications
Additional points apply if your partner holds a relevant qualification and a positive skills assessment.
- Partner English language skills
If your partner can demonstrate at least Competent English, additional points apply.
-
Australian partner
or single status
Applicants without a partner, or with an Australian partner, receive additional points.
- State Nomination
A nomination from an Australian state or territory provides extra points – the number depends on the visa subclass.
WHY THE POINTS TEST IS SO IMPORTANT
The points test is more than a mathematical requirement – it is the backbone of your entire migration strategy. Only by understanding your points position realistically – and optimising it in a targeted way – can you actively influence your chances of receiving an invitation and visa.
Tip: The professionally prepared Visapath visa assessment helps you adjust all relevant factors – from language testing to occupation selection and state nomination.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – POINTS TEST
FAQS
01 How many points do I need for an Australian Skilled Visa?
The minimum score for the points test is currently 65 points, regardless of the visa subclass. Only applicants who reach or exceed this threshold may submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and enter the selection pool.
For the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), the number of points you achieve is critical for receiving an invitation.
For state-nominated visas (subclass 190 and 491), the total score matters, but states also assess the composition of your points – for example, work experience, English proficiency or qualifications. Individual states weight certain categories differently and according to their own strategic objectives. As a result, the overall points score is not always the decisive criterion for these visas.
02 How are points calculated in the Australian points system?
The points system evaluates measurable criteria such as age, education, work experience, English language proficiency, partner qualifications and, where applicable, state nomination.
The stronger your qualifications in these areas, the higher your total points.
03 Can I improve my points for the visa?
Yes – your points can be increased strategically. Common strategies include:
- Improving your English language score (e.g. Proficient or Superior English)
- Gaining work experience in your nominated occupation – ideally in Australia (e.g. through employer-sponsored visas)
- Completing a suitable Australian qualification – particularly in regional Australia
- Optimising partner points through an additional skills assessment or by meeting the English requirement
Tip: A professional assessment of your starting point – for example, through a Visapath visa roadmap – identifies exactly which improvements will have the greatest impact.
04 Does my overseas work experience count?
Yes – overseas work experience is also recognised, provided it is in an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List and was gained at a comparable skill level. However, work experience in Australia is weighted more highly.
05 What is the maximum age for a Skilled Visa?
Applicants must be under 45 years of age to be eligible for a skilled visa. Within this range, age-related points apply.
06 Do I need a job offer in Australia?
No. A job offer is not required for the independent Skilled Visa (subclass 189). These visas are for qualified professionals who qualify solely through the points test.
For state-nominated visas (subclass 190 or 491), a job offer is not legally required either, but depending on the state, it may increase your chances of receiving a nomination.
SUPPORT FROM VISAPATH
As an Australia-based migration agency, Visapath supports professionals and families on their pathway to an Australian visa – individually, transparently and in full compliance with Australian migration law.
We help you assess your points situation realistically, plan your skills recognition and develop the right strategy for your optimal visa category. Our goal is to maximise your chances and provide you with a clear, structured roadmap to your visa.
Our migration agents have extensive experience in Australian migration law and understand the typical questions international applicants face.
Service and quality advantages with Visapath
- Dedicated personal contact: Personal support from one consultant throughout the entire process.
- Registered Migration Agents: Every application is assessed and managed in accordance with Australian law – reliable and legally compliant.
- Transparency & highest standards: We work under the official Code of Conduct for Migration Agents – ensuring integrity, data protection and transparency.
- Complete service from one source: From analysis to translations and application lodgement – coordinated, efficient and tailored to your situation.