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Your points score is one of the first things to check when considering Australia's points-tested skilled migration pathways. But reaching the minimum points threshold does not automatically mean you will receive an invitation.
For Subclasses 189, 190 and 491, your points claim should be based on the applicable migration rules and supported by evidence.
The main points-tested skilled pathways include:
| Visa | Pathway |
| Subclass 189 | Skilled Independent |
| Subclass 190 | Skilled Nominated |
| Subclass 491 | Skilled Work Regional |
Reach Immigration also has dedicated pages for the individual pathways, including the Skilled Independent Subclass 189 pathway and state-nominated options.
The points test has a minimum threshold of 65 points for the relevant points-tested skilled visas.
However:
65 points does not guarantee an invitation.
Invitation competitiveness can depend on factors such as occupation, points score, nomination and the number of candidates competing for available places.
The points test can consider factors including:
Your exact claim must be checked against the applicable rules.
Age is a major factor because points can change significantly between age brackets.
There is also an upper age requirement for points-tested skilled visas.
If you are approaching the relevant age limit, timing can become a major part of your migration strategy.
English can affect your eligibility and points score.
You should only claim the level supported by an accepted test result or other recognised evidence where applicable.
Do not assume that being able to communicate comfortably in English automatically gives you the highest points category.
Relevant skilled employment can contribute to the points score.
The word relevant matters.
You need to consider whether the employment:
Documents may include employment references, payslips, tax records, contracts and other evidence.
Your qualification can contribute to the points score if it meets the relevant requirements.
The title of a degree alone is not enough.
The qualification and its recognition need to be considered alongside your nominated occupation and skills assessment.
Subclass 190 and 491 involve state or territory nomination.
That means your strategy can involve more than simply calculating your federal points.
You should also assess the relevant state or territory requirements.
For a starting point, you can compare state nomination requirements across Australian migration pathways
Points alone do not determine whether you have a viable skilled migration pathway.
Your nominated occupation must also meet the applicable occupation requirements.
Before submitting an EOI, check the Australian skilled occupation list against your occupation.
A useful calculator should ask for:
Your Result
Estimated points: XX
Minimum threshold: 65
Potential pathway: 189 / 190 / 491
Important: An indicative score does not guarantee an invitation.
A calculator can help you identify your likely score, but it cannot replace assessment of your evidence.
For example, someone may enter five years of employment and receive points in a calculator, while their actual evidence may not support the entire period.
That is why your calculator result should be treated as a planning tool.
The next step should be checking:
Occupation → Skills assessment → English → Points → Nomination options → EOI → Invitation → Visa application
For a detailed overview, you can also follow the Australian migration process from eligibility through PR.
Want to know where you stand?
Use the PR points calculator first, then get your occupation, skills assessment and nomination strategy reviewed before submitting your EOI.