Australia’s skilled migration program offers a pathway for talented professionals to live and work in the country which includes a points-based system, which evaluates applicants on factors such as age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.
Scoring higher points not only improves your chances of receiving an invitation to apply but also helps you stand out among other applicants.
This guide is tailored for migrants, immigrants, and visa holders looking to maximise their points and secure an Australian skilled visa.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the Australian Points System
- Key Factors to Boost Your Points
- Tips for Maximising Your Points Score
- How the Skilled Occupation Lists Impact Your Application
- Special Opportunities for Regional Areas
- FAQs for Maximising Your Points
- Useful Links and Resources
1. Overview of the Australian Points System
Australia’s points system is the foundation of the Skilled Migration Program, used to assess and rank applicants. It applies to key skilled visa subclasses, including:
- Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
- Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
- Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa
To be eligible, you must score a minimum of 65 points in the points test. However, securing a higher score significantly improves your chances of receiving an invitation, particularly in competitive occupations. Points are awarded across several categories, which are explained below.
2. Key Factors to Boost Your Points
Understanding how points are allocated is crucial for maximising your score. The main factors are:
Age:
- 18–24 years: 25 points
- 25–32 years: 30 points (highest)
- 33–39 years: 25 points
- 40–44 years: 15 points
- 45 years and above: 0 points
English Proficiency:
- Competent English: 0 points (minimum requirement for most visas)
- Proficient English: 10 points
- Superior English: 20 points
Work Experience:
- Overseas work experience (3–5 years): 5 points
- Australian work experience (3–5 years): 10 points
- The higher your work experience, the more points you can earn, up to 20 points for extensive experience.
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher: 15 points
- Australian study qualification (completed in Australia): 5 points
- Doctorate: 20 points
Other Factors:
- Credentialed community language qualifications: 5 points
- Partner’s skills and English proficiency: Up to 10 points
- Study or work in regional Australia: 5 points
3. Tips for Maximising Your Points Score
Enhance Your English Proficiency:
Achieving “Superior English” in recognised English language tests such as IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT can add 20 points to your score. Consider taking preparation courses to improve your performance.
Gain More Work Experience:
If possible, accumulate additional years of professional experience in your occupation, particularly in Australia, as it is valued more highly than overseas experience.
Pursue Higher Education in Australia:
Completing a higher qualification, such as a master’s or doctoral degree, or studying in a regional area can give you bonus points. Additionally, Australian education qualifications carry more weight in the points system.
Seek a Skilled Partner or Apply Solo:
If your partner has skilled qualifications and competent English, they can contribute up to 10 points. Alternatively, if you are single, you may automatically qualify for extra points.
Explore State or Territory Sponsorship:
States and territories in Australia provide nomination pathways that can add 5–15 points, depending on the visa subclass. Research state-specific requirements to see if your occupation is in demand.
4. How the Skilled Occupation Lists Impact Your Application
Nominate an occupation from the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL), as this is a mandatory requirement for all skilled visas. Occupations on the lists are regularly updated to reflect workforce needs in Australia. Commonly listed roles include engineers, healthcare professionals, IT specialists, and trades.
Check the list that applies to your visa subclass:
- Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) for Subclass 189
- Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) for Subclass 190
- Regional Occupation List (ROL) for Subclass 491
5. Special Opportunities for Regional Areas
Australia’s regional migration initiatives encourage skilled workers to settle in regional areas. By studying or working in regional Australia, you can earn additional points and benefit from regional sponsorships. This is particularly advantageous under the Subclass 491 visa, which prioritises applicants willing to live and work in less populated areas.
Key benefits of regional migration include:
- 5 bonus points for studying in a regional area.
- Access to additional nomination streams through state or territory governments.
- Greater opportunities for permanent residency pathways under Subclass 191 after fulfilling regional work and residency requirements.
6. FAQs for Maximising Your Points
How can I improve my points score quickly?
Focus on improving your English proficiency or completing a skills assessment for a recognised partner. Pursuing additional qualifications can also be effective.
Is the minimum 65 points enough to get an invitation?
While 65 is the minimum threshold, higher scores are often required in competitive occupations due to demand. Aim for at least 75–80 points to improve your chances.
Do I need to have Australian work experience?
Australian work experience is highly valued, but overseas work experience can also contribute points. However, a mix of both is ideal to maximise your score.
Can I update my EOI after submission?
Yes, you can update your Expression of Interest (EOI) with additional qualifications, work experience, or a new English test score to increase your points.
Can state or territory nominations guarantee an invitation?
State or territory nominations add points and improve your chances, but they do not guarantee an invitation as competition varies by occupation and state requirements.
7. Useful Links and Resources
Australian Skilled Migration Points Calculator
Skilled Occupation List
Official Visa Information
Summary
Maximising your points for an Australian skilled visa requires a strategic approach. Focus on improving your English proficiency, gaining additional work experience, pursuing higher education, and leveraging state or territory nominations. By understanding how the points system works and taking proactive steps to enhance your score, you can significantly improve your chances of securing an invitation to apply for a skilled visa. Regularly check official updates and utilise resources like the points calculator to track your progress.
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