Australia Skilled Migration Points Calculator
Understanding the Australian Skilled Migration Points System
Australia's skilled migration program is a cornerstone of its immigration policy, designed to attract individuals with skills and qualifications that meet the country's economic needs. Many skilled visa subclasses, such as the Skilled Independent (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated (subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visas, operate on a points-based system. This system objectively assesses candidates based on various factors, ensuring that those who are most likely to contribute to Australia's economy and society are invited to apply.
How the Points System Works
Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, detailing their qualifications, experience, and personal circumstances. Points are awarded for each factor, and only those who meet a minimum points threshold (currently 65 points for most skilled visas) are eligible to be invited to apply for a visa. However, due to high demand, the actual invitation threshold is often significantly higher than the minimum.
Key Factors for Earning Points:
1. Age
Your age at the time of invitation to apply for the visa is a significant factor. The highest points are awarded to applicants in their prime working years, typically between 25 and 32 years old. Points decrease for older age groups, and applicants aged 45 or over generally cannot apply for points-tested skilled visas.
- 18-24 years: 25 points
- 25-32 years: 30 points
- 33-39 years: 25 points
- 40-44 years: 15 points
2. English Language Proficiency
Demonstrating your English language ability through tests like IELTS or PTE Academic is mandatory. While 'Competent English' (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in each band) is the minimum requirement for eligibility, you earn additional points for higher proficiency levels.
- Competent English: 0 points
- Proficient English (e.g., IELTS 7.0 in each band): 10 points
- Superior English (e.g., IELTS 8.0 in each band): 20 points
3. Skilled Employment Experience
Points are awarded for skilled employment experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related field, both overseas and within Australia. The experience must be gained in the last 10 years and be assessed as skilled by the relevant assessing authority.
- Overseas Skilled Employment:
- 3-4 years: 5 points
- 5-7 years: 10 points
- 8 years or more: 15 points
- Australian Skilled Employment:
- 1-2 years: 5 points
- 3-4 years: 10 points
- 5-7 years: 15 points
- 8 years or more: 20 points
4. Qualifications
Your educational qualifications also contribute to your points total. Higher qualifications, such as a Doctorate or Bachelor's degree, attract more points.
- Recognised trade qualification or diploma: 10 points
- Bachelor degree (or higher): 15 points
- Doctorate degree: 20 points
5. Australian Study Requirement
Completing at least two academic years of study in Australia can earn you additional points, provided the study meets specific criteria (e.g., CRICOS registered course, English language instruction).
- At least 2 years Australian study: 5 points
6. Professional Year in Australia
Completing a Professional Year program in Australia in an eligible occupation (e.g., Accounting, IT, Engineering) can also add points.
- Professional Year in Australia: 5 points
7. NAATI Accreditation (Credentialled Community Language)
If you have accreditation as a translator or interpreter at the paraprofessional level or above from the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI), you can claim extra points.
- NAATI accreditation: 5 points
8. Study in Regional Australia
If you completed at least two academic years of study in a regional area of Australia, you may be eligible for additional points.
- Study in a regional area: 5 points
9. Partner Skills
Your partner's skills and qualifications can also contribute to your points total, provided they meet certain criteria.
- Partner has Competent English: 5 points
- Partner has Competent English, a skilled occupation assessment, and is under 45: 10 points
10. State/Territory Nomination (for 190 and 491 visas)
If you are nominated by an Australian state or territory government for a Subclass 190 or 491 visa, you receive additional points.
- Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visa: 5 points
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) visa: 15 points
Important Considerations:
- Minimum Points: While 65 points is the minimum eligibility threshold, actual invitation rounds often require significantly higher scores due to competitive demand.
- Skill Assessment: Before you can claim points for skilled employment or qualifications, your skills must be assessed by the relevant Australian assessing authority.
- Visa Subclass Specifics: The points system applies primarily to the Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas. Other visa types may have different eligibility criteria.
- Changes to Policy: Immigration policies and points allocations can change. Always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most current information.
Use the calculator above to estimate your potential points score based on the current criteria. This can help you understand your eligibility and plan your migration pathway to Australia.