Australia’s main skilled migration visas – the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – are points-tested. You cannot apply directly: you first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect and must be invited.
The basic requirements
- An occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- A positive skills assessment from the assessing authority for that occupation
- At least competent English
- Under 45 years of age when invited
- A score of at least 65 points – the minimum to lodge an EOI. In practice, invitations often require more.
How points are awarded
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| Age 18–24 | 25 |
| Age 25–32 | 30 |
| Age 33–39 | 25 |
| Age 40–44 | 15 |
| Proficient English | 10 |
| Superior English | 20 |
| Skilled employment outside Australia (3–4 / 5–7 / 8+ years) | 5 / 10 / 15 |
| Skilled employment in Australia (1–2 / 3–4 / 5–7 / 8+ years) | 5 / 10 / 15 / 20 |
| Doctorate | 20 |
| Bachelor or master’s degree | 15 |
| Diploma or trade qualification | 10 |
| Specialist education qualification (STEM master’s by research or PhD in Australia) | 10 |
| Australian study requirement | 5 |
| Study in regional Australia | 5 |
| Professional Year in Australia | 5 |
| Credentialled community language | 5 |
| Partner skills (or single / partner is an Australian citizen or PR) | 10 |
| Partner with competent English only | 5 |
| State or territory nomination (subclass 190) | 5 |
| State nomination or family sponsorship in a regional area (subclass 491) | 15 |
Combined points for overseas and Australian employment are capped at 20.
189, 190 or 491 – what is the difference?
- Subclass 189 is a permanent visa that does not need nomination. It is the most competitive.
- Subclass 190 is a permanent visa that requires nomination by a state or territory, which adds 5 points.
- Subclass 491 is a provisional five-year visa for living and working in regional Australia. Nomination adds 15 points, and holders can later apply for permanent residence through subclass 191 if they meet its requirements.
Practical ways to improve your score
- Aim for proficient or superior English – often the fastest way to gain 10–20 points.
- Check whether your partner can add points through skills or English.
- Consider state nomination, and research each state’s own occupation lists and criteria.
- Make sure your skills assessment and work experience claims match exactly; inconsistencies can lead to refusal.
Keep an eye on changes
The points test is set out in the Migration Regulations and the Australian Government has been reviewing the skilled migration system. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website before lodging an EOI or visa application, because points, occupation lists and invitation patterns can change.
How AZ Sterling International can help
We calculate your points, identify the correct assessing authority, guide your skills assessment and English test planning, and manage your EOI, state nomination and visa application. We do not guarantee invitations or visa grants.
See our Australia PR service or request a free assessment.
Sources
- Department of Home Affairs – SkillSelect
- Department of Home Affairs – Points table (subclass 189)
- Provisa – Skilled migration 189, 190 and 491 update 2026
Information is current as of November 2026 and may change. Confirm the current points table with the Department of Home Affairs.
