A Complete Guide to Australia’s Immigration Points System
- February 17, 2025
- Posted by: Seo We Move Ads
- Category: Uncategorized
Australia’s immigration system is designed to attract skilled workers, investors, and professionals who can contribute to the country’s economy. One of the most important aspects of Australian immigration is the points-based system, which determines eligibility for various skilled migration visas.
If you’re considering moving to Australia, understanding how the immigration points system works can help you maximize your score and improve your chances of receiving an invitation to apply. In this guide, we’ll explain the key factors that influence your points, the visa categories that use the points system, and tips to enhance your score.
What Is Australia’s Immigration Points System?
Australia’s points-based immigration system is used to assess applicants for skilled migration visas. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and more. To qualify for most skilled visas, applicants must achieve a minimum number of points, usually 65 or more.
Who Needs to Meet the Points Requirement?
The Australian points system applies to the following skilled migration visas:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – For skilled workers who do not require state or employer sponsorship.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – For skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) – For skilled workers sponsored by an eligible family member or state/territory in regional Australia.
How Are Points Awarded?
Your total points score is determined based on several key factors. Here’s a breakdown of how points are allocated:
1. Age (Maximum: 30 Points)
Your age at the time of application significantly affects your score. Younger applicants receive the highest points.
| Age Range | Points |
|---|---|
| 18 – 24 years | 25 |
| 25 – 32 years | 30 |
| 33 – 39 years | 25 |
| 40 – 44 years | 15 |
| 45 – 49 years | 0 |
2. English Language Proficiency (Maximum: 20 Points)
Applicants must take an approved English test (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or Cambridge C1 Advanced). Your points depend on your score.
| English Level | Points |
|---|---|
| Competent (IELTS 6.0 in each band) | 0 |
| Proficient (IELTS 7.0 in each band) | 10 |
| Superior (IELTS 8.0 in each band) | 20 |
3. Skilled Work Experience (Maximum: 20 Points)
Points are awarded for relevant skilled work experience in Australia or overseas.
Overseas Work Experience
| Years of Experience | Points |
|---|---|
| Less than 3 years | 0 |
| 3 – 4 years | 5 |
| 5 – 7 years | 10 |
| 8+ years | 15 |
Australian Work Experience
| Years of Experience | Points |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 year | 0 |
| 1 – 2 years | 5 |
| 3 – 4 years | 10 |
| 5 – 7 years | 15 |
| 8+ years | 20 |
4. Education Qualifications (Maximum: 20 Points)
Your educational background plays a crucial role in your total points.
| Qualification | Points |
|---|---|
| Doctorate (PhD) | 20 |
| Bachelor’s or Master’s degree | 15 |
| Diploma or trade qualification | 10 |
| Award recognized by Australia | 10 |
5. Australian Study Requirement (5 Points)
If you completed at least 2 years of study in Australia in a CRICOS-registered course, you receive 5 extra points.
6. Specialist Education Qualification (10 Points)
Applicants who have completed a Master’s or PhD in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields in Australia can earn an additional 10 points.
7. Partner Skills (Maximum: 10 Points)
Your spouse or de facto partner can contribute to your score if they meet eligibility requirements.
| Partner Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Partner is under 45, has a skilled occupation, and meets English requirements | 10 |
| Partner has competent English only (no skilled occupation) | 5 |
| Single or partner is an Australian citizen or PR holder | 10 |
8. State or Territory Nomination (Maximum: 15 Points)
Applicants for Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) can receive additional points:
- Subclass 190 (State nomination): +5 points
- Subclass 491 (Regional nomination): +15 points
9. Professional Year in Australia (5 Points)
If you complete a Professional Year Program in Australia in accounting, IT, or engineering, you receive 5 extra points.
10. NAATI Accreditation (5 Points)
Applicants who hold NAATI certification for community language translation services can receive 5 points.
Minimum Points Requirement to Qualify
The minimum points required to be eligible for a skilled visa is 65 points. However, due to high demand, applicants with higher scores have a better chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
| Points Score | Chance of Invitation |
|---|---|
| 65 – 70 | Low |
| 75 – 85 | Moderate |
| 90+ | High |
Tips to Increase Your Points Score
Here are some strategies to maximize your points and improve your chances of getting an Australian visa: ✅ Improve Your English Score – A higher IELTS/PTE score can earn you up to 20 points. ✅ Gain More Work Experience – Working longer in your field can boost your work experience points. ✅ Pursue Higher Education – Earning a Master’s or PhD can significantly increase your score. ✅ Apply for State Nomination – State sponsorship can add 5–15 points. ✅ Take a Professional Year Program – This can add 5 extra points if you qualify. ✅ Use Partner Points – If your partner has relevant skills and English proficiency, you can gain up to 10 points.
Conclusion
Australia’s points-based immigration system is designed to attract skilled professionals who can contribute to the country’s workforce. By understanding how points are allocated, you can strategically plan your visa application and maximize your score.
If you need expert assistance in assessing your eligibility and improving your points, Mahi Visa Services can guide you through the process and increase your chances of a successful application!
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