How the Australian points-based skilled migration system works: the points test, visa subclasses 189, 190 and 491, skills assessment bodies, state nomination programs, and SkillSelect explained step by step.
Australia's skilled migration program allows people with specific skills, qualifications, and work experience to obtain permanent or provisional residency without needing an employer to sponsor them. It is points-based and competitive, so understanding the system is essential before investing time and money in an application.
To be invited to apply for most skilled migration visas, you must score at least 65 points on the points test. In practice, invitations are issued to the highest-scoring candidates in each draw, and you typically need 80–100+ points to be competitive for popular occupations.
| Factor | Maximum Points | Key Thresholds |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 30 | 25–32 = 30 pts; 33–39 = 25 pts; 18–24 or 40–44 = 15 pts |
| English Language | 20 | Superior (IELTS 8 each) = 20 pts; Proficient (7 each) = 10 pts; Competent (6 each) = 0 pts |
| Skilled Employment (overseas) | 15 | 8+ years = 15 pts; 5–7 years = 10 pts; 3–4 years = 5 pts |
| Skilled Employment (in Australia) | 20 | 8+ years = 20 pts; 5–7 years = 15 pts; 3–4 years = 10 pts; 1–2 years = 5 pts |
| Educational Qualifications | 20 | Doctorate = 20 pts; Bachelor/Masters = 15 pts; Diploma/trade = 10 pts |
| Australian Study Requirement | 5 | Completed 2-yr AUS degree/diploma |
| Specialist Education (STEM) | 10 | Masters by research or Doctorate in STEM |
| Accredited Community Language | 5 | NAATI-certified interpreter/translator |
| Professional Year | 5 | Completed a Professional Year in AU |
| State/Territory Nomination (190) | 5 | Adds 5 points to your score |
| Regional Nomination / Sponsorship (491) | 15 | Adds 15 points |
| Partner Skills | 10 | Partner meets age, skills, English requirements |
| Single or partner no skills | 10 | No skilled partner or currently single |
No employer, state, or territory sponsorship required. You can live and work anywhere in Australia. This is the most competitive pathway and requires the highest points scores. Occupation must be on the MLTSSL.
Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. Adds 5 points to your score. You must intend to live and work in the nominating state for at least 2 years (the condition is not always strictly enforced but is a genuine commitment required).
Sponsored by a state/territory or an eligible family member in regional Australia. Adds 15 points. You must live and work in a designated regional area. After 3 years, you may apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa.
Before submitting an Expression of Interest, most applicants must have their skills assessed by the relevant authority for their occupation. This confirms your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.
| Authority | Occupations Covered |
|---|---|
| Engineers Australia | Engineers (civil, mechanical, electrical, software, etc.) |
| ACS (Australian Computer Society) | ICT professionals (developers, analysts, project managers) |
| VETASSESS | Hundreds of occupations including managers, trades, and professionals not covered elsewhere |
| ANMAC | Nurses and midwives |
| Medical Board of Australia | Medical practitioners |
| Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) | Trades workers (electricians, plumbers, carpenters, etc.) |
| CPA Australia / CAANZ / IPA | Accountants |
| AIAC | Architects |
| TEQSA / NOOSR | Teachers |
Submit an EOI through SkillSelect
SkillSelect is the Department of Home Affairs online system for skilled migration. You submit an Expression of Interest with your points claim, occupation, and personal details.
Wait for an invitation round
The Department runs regular invitation rounds for each visa subclass and occupation. Candidates with the highest scores and longest time in the pool receive invitations first.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your score is competitive, you receive an ITA. You then have 60 days to lodge your full visa application and pay the application charge.
Lodge your visa application
Provide all supporting documents including skills assessment, English test results, employment references, health and character checks.
Await decision
Processing times vary considerably. Check immi.homeaffairs.gov.au for current indicative processing times.
Each state and territory runs its own nomination program with different occupation lists, requirements, and quotas. Key points:
| Visa | Typical Processing | Approx. Cost (primary applicant) |
|---|---|---|
| 189 Skilled Independent | 6–18 months | ~$4,640 AUD |
| 190 Skilled Nominated | 6–18 months | ~$4,640 AUD |
| 491 Skilled Work Regional | 6–18 months | ~$4,640 AUD |
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Disclaimer: This information is general guidance only and may change at any time without notice. Immigration law and visa conditions are complex and individual circumstances vary. Always verify current requirements at homeaffairs.gov.au. This content does not constitute legal or migration advice. Consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or immigration lawyer for advice tailored to your situation.
