Complete Guide to Australian PR Points and Skilled Migration 2026
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How Australia Selects Skilled Migrants
Australia uses a points-based system to select skilled workers for permanent residency through the General Skilled Migration (GSM) programme. Unlike many countries' immigration systems, Australia does not simply grant visas to anyone with a job offer or a certain salary. Instead, it scores you across multiple personal and professional attributes (age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and more) and selects the highest-scoring applicants through a competitive queue called SkillSelect.
This system is governed by Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations 1994, which specifies exactly how many points each attribute earns. Every point value on this site traces directly to that legislative source.
Points Test
You are scored across 13 categories defined in Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations 1994. Your total score determines your competitiveness in the SkillSelect invitation pool. The current minimum to submit an Expression of Interest is 65 points.
SkillSelect Queue
You submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, a free online system. You are ranked against all other applicants for your occupation. The highest-ranking applicants receive invitations to apply for a visa.
Visa Grant
If invited, you lodge a formal visa application within 60 days. After health examinations, character checks, and document assessment, the Department of Home Affairs grants your visa. For the subclass 189 and 190, you become a permanent resident from the date of grant.
Who can apply, eligibility overview:
- •Have a nominated occupation on an eligible occupation list (MLTSSL, STSOL, or ROL depending on the visa)
- •Hold a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority
- •Score at least 65 points on the General Skilled Migration points test
- •Meet English language requirements (at minimum Competent English)
- •Be under 45 years of age at the time you receive your invitation
The Three Points-Tested Visa Pathways
Choosing the right pathway depends on your points score, your occupation, and where you are willing to live.
| Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa type | Permanent (from grant) | Permanent (from grant) | Provisional (5 years) |
| Path to PR | Direct | Direct | Via Subclass 191 after 3 years |
| Points bonus | None | +5 (state nomination) | +15 (regional sponsorship) |
| Sponsor required | None | State/territory government | State/territory or eligible family member |
| Occupation lists | MLTSSL only | MLTSSL + STSOL | MLTSSL + STSOL + ROL |
| Geographic restriction | None (live anywhere) | Live in nominating state | Designated regional areas |
| Cities excluded | None | None | Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane |
| Perth / Adelaide | Live there freely | N/A | ✓ Both qualify as regional |
| Application fee | AUD $6,135 | AUD $6,140 | AUD $6,140 |
| Processing time | 5–12 months | 14–18 months | 6–14 months |
| Best for | 85+ pts, MLTSSL occupation | 65–85 pts, willing to settle in one state | 65–80 pts, willing to live regionally |
Subclass 189: Skilled Independent
The most autonomous pathway, no sponsor, no geographic restriction, permanent from day one. Requires the highest scores and is the most competitive. Only MLTSSL occupations qualify.
Full guide →Subclass 190: Skilled Nominated
State nomination adds 5 points and opens the STSOL occupation list. Permanent from day one. Accessible at lower scores than the 189. Most states expect you to live there for approximately 2 years.
Full guide →Subclass 491: Skilled Work Regional
Regional sponsorship adds 15 points, the largest bonus available. Provisional for 5 years; permanent residency via Subclass 191 after 3 years of regional living. Perth and Adelaide qualify as regional.
Full guide →How the Points Test Works: All 13 Categories
Source: Schedule 6D, Migration Regulations 1994
The points test scores you across 13 distinct categories. Your total determines your position in the SkillSelect queue.
| Category | Criteria | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 25 to under 33 years | 30 |
| Age | 18 to under 25 or 33 to under 40 | 25 |
| Age | 40 to under 45 | 15 |
| Age | Under 18 or 45 and over | 0 |
| English Proficiency | Superior (IELTS 8.0 / PTE 79) | 20 |
| English Proficiency | Proficient (IELTS 7.0 / PTE 65) | 10 |
| English Proficiency | Competent (IELTS 6.0 / PTE 50) | 0 |
| Australian Work Experience | 8+ years | 20 |
| Australian Work Experience | 5–7 years | 15 |
| Australian Work Experience | 3–4 years | 10 |
| Australian Work Experience | 1–2 years | 5 |
| Overseas Work Experience | 8+ years | 15 |
| Overseas Work Experience | 5–7 years | 10 |
| Overseas Work Experience | 3–4 years | 5 |
| Overseas Work Experience | Less than 3 years | 0 |
| Work Experience Cap | Combined maximum | 20 |
| Education | Doctorate (PhD) | 20 |
| Education | Masters or Bachelor degree | 15 |
| Education | Diploma or trade qualification | 10 |
| Australian Study Requirement | Completed at Australian institution | 5 |
| Partner Skills | Skilled partner or single applicant | 10 |
| Partner Skills | Partner with Competent English only | 5 |
| State Nomination | Subclass 190 nomination | 5 |
| Regional Sponsorship | Subclass 491 nomination | 15 |
| Professional Year | Completed in Australia | 5 |
| NAATI CCL | Credentialled Community Language | 5 |
| STEM Qualification | Masters or PhD in STEM at Australian institution | 10 |
Three rules most applicants miss:
- 1.Work experience cap: Overseas + Australian combined cannot exceed 20 points (Part 6D.5, Schedule 6D). Australian experience takes priority.
- 2.Single applicants: If you have no partner, you still receive 10 partner points under item 6D112 of Schedule 6D. Never claim zero.
- 3.Points at invitation: Your score is assessed when you RECEIVE your invitation, not when you submit your EOI. Update your EOI as your circumstances improve.
Step 1: Get Your Skills Assessment
This is the gate. Nothing else can proceed without it.
A positive skills assessment from the relevant Australian authority is mandatory before you can submit an EOI in SkillSelect. It confirms that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation.
| Assessing Body | Occupations | Processing Time | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACS | ICT, Data Science, Cyber Security | 8–12 weeks | AUD $530–$800 |
| Engineers Australia | Engineering (all disciplines) | 6–8 weeks | AUD $550 |
| ANMAC | Nursing and Midwifery | 4–6 weeks | Varies |
| AHPRA | Medical practitioners, physiotherapists, pharmacists | Varies | Varies |
| CPA Australia / CAANZ | Accounting and finance | 4–8 weeks | Varies |
| Vetassess | Social workers, teachers, marketing, graphic designers, and many others | 12–20 weeks | AUD $820–$1,100 |
| TRA | Tradespersons (electricians, plumbers, carpenters) | 3–6 months | AUD $550+ |
Start early, skills assessment is the rate-limiting step
A 12-week ACS assessment means you cannot submit your EOI for at least 3 months after starting. A 20-week Vetassess assessment means nearly 5 months. Begin your skills assessment as early as possible, ideally 6 months before you intend to submit your EOI.
Step 2: Calculate and Improve Your Score
Once you have your skills assessment, calculate your complete points score across all 13 categories. Use our calculator to see your indicative score and your occupation's invitation history. If your score is not yet competitive for your target visa, these five strategies deliver the highest return on investment:
Superior English: +10–20 Points
Moving from Proficient (IELTS 7.0) to Superior (IELTS 8.0) adds 10 points. Moving from Competent to Superior adds 20 points. Superior English is the highest-leverage improvement available and carries zero reform risk, it benefits you under both the current and proposed 2026 systems. → See full IELTS and PTE scores guide
State Nomination (190): +5 Points
Apply for state nomination from any state where your occupation is listed. Adds 5 points immediately on invitation. South Australia and Tasmania historically nominate at the lowest score thresholds.
Regional Sponsorship (491): +15 Points
The largest single bonus available. If you are willing to live in a designated regional area (includes Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Gold Coast), the 491 adds 15 points and unlocks the pathway to permanent residency via the Subclass 191.
Partner Skills: +10 Points
If your partner has a positive skills assessment and Competent English, you receive 10 points. If you are single with no partner, you also receive 10 points under item 6D112 of Schedule 6D. Check you are claiming this correctly. → Full guide: How partner points work
NAATI CCL: +5 Points
If you are fluent in a language other than English (Hindi, Punjabi, Tamil, Nepali, Tagalog, Mandarin, and 30+ others), the NAATI Credentialled Community Language test adds 5 points. Requires 3–6 months of preparation. → Full guide: Is NAATI CCL worth it?
⚠ Professional Year and Australian Study: Reform Risk
The Professional Year (+5 points) and Australian Study Requirement (+5 points) are proposed for removal under the 2026 reform. If you are considering these strategies purely for migration points, weigh the cost carefully against the possibility they may not exist after 1 July 2027. See our full reform guide.
Step 3: Submit Your EOI and Wait for an Invitation
SkillSelect is the Department of Home Affairs' free online system for managing skilled migration Expressions of Interest. You submit your EOI once you have your skills assessment, meet the English requirement, and score at least 65 points.
Submit your EOI at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
Free to submit. Valid for 2 years. Update it at any time. Your date of effect is set, earlier is better for tiebreaking.
Wait in the SkillSelect pool
You are ranked by points score. Equal scores are broken by date of effect (the date your EOI reached its current score). Invitation rounds run quarterly for subclass 189 in 2026.
Receive your Invitation to Apply (ITA)
You have exactly 60 days to lodge your complete visa application. Missing this deadline means your invitation lapses.
Lodge your visa application within 60 days
Pay the visa application charge. Submit all documents. Complete health examinations and police clearances.
The date of effect rule, why every day matters
The date of effect is the date and time your EOI reached its current points score in SkillSelect. If you update your score, your date of effect resets to the update date. Submit your EOI as early as possible at your accurate score. Every day you delay is a day of queue position lost.
After submitting your EOI, you must wait to receive an invitation. Keep track of the latest SkillSelect invitation round dates and cutoffs to understand your position in the queue.
Step 4: Consider State Nomination for Bonus Points
If your score is below the competitive threshold for the subclass 189, state nomination or regional sponsorship can bridge the gap.
Regional and state-nominated visas together make up approximately 50% of Australia's skilled stream allocation , making this the most significant pathway for the majority of skilled migrants who cannot reach subclass 189 invitation scores independently.
- •Apply directly to each state through its migration portal
- •Fees: AUD $200–$500 per state application (non-refundable)
- •Processing: 2–12 weeks per state
- •Apply to multiple states simultaneously, no penalty for this
- •Most accessible states: South Australia, Tasmania
- •Largest 2025–26 allocation: Queensland (3,400 combined 190/491 places)
Quick state comparison
- Most accessible for lower scores:South Australia, Tasmania
- Largest allocation:Queensland
- Must live there (strict):Victoria (ROI system), ACT (Canberra Matrix)
- Lowest fee:WA and Tasmania (AUD $200)
- Resources/trades focus:Western Australia
The 2026 Points Test Reform: What You Need to Know
⚠ Status: Confirmed in Budget, not yet legislated
The 2026 reform has been confirmed in Budget papers but not yet legislated. Everything in this section is based on announced government direction and proposed changes. The current Schedule 6D system remains fully in effect as at July 2026.
Australia's skilled migration landscape is undergoing its most significant structural review since the points test was introduced in 2012.
What is confirmed:
- ✓Reform announced in 2026–27 Federal Budget (12 May 2026)
- ✓The points test will be "optimised to select better educated, higher-skilled and younger migrants overall"
- ✓Proposed implementation: 1 July 2027
- ✓Transitional protection: applicants invited before the new test commences will be assessed under the current rules
What is proposed (not yet legislated):
- ◌Minimum threshold may increase from 65 to 70 points
- ◌Greater weight for younger age and Superior English
- ◌New income-based points for earnings above AUD $146,717
- ◌Professional Year and Australian Study bonuses may be removed
- ◌Greater occupation-matching priority (shortage sectors favoured)
What to do now:
- →If you already have 65+ points, submit your EOI immediately
- →Maximise English to Superior, benefits under both systems
- →Do not invest in Professional Year purely for 5 points
- →Monitor immi.homeaffairs.gov.au for consultation paper release
Realistic Timeline: From Skills Assessment to PR Grant
The most common question, and the one most migration websites answer vaguely. Here is an honest, stage-by-stage breakdown. For an in-depth look, see our 2026 PR processing time guide.
| Stage | Typical Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| English test preparation and sitting | 1–6 months | Varies significantly by starting level |
| Skills assessment (e.g. ACS) | 8–12 weeks | Start this first, it gates everything else |
| SkillSelect pool, wait for invitation | 1 month to 3+ years | Score and occupation dependent |
| 189/190 visa processing after lodgement | 5–18 months | 189 faster; 190 typically 14–18 months |
| 491 visa processing after lodgement | 6–14 months | Faster than 190 typically |
| TOTAL: 189/190 (EOI to PR grant) | 2–4 years typically | Competitive scores at high end of shorter range |
| TOTAL: 491 + 191 (EOI to full PR) | 4–6 years | Includes 3 years regional living for 191 |
This Is a Multi-Year Commitment
The applicants who achieve the best outcomes are those who plan for the full timeline from the start. Starting your skills assessment and English preparation as early as possible, submitting your EOI at the earliest eligible opportunity, and monitoring your date of effect position are the three highest-impact actions you can take. Use our calculator to understand where you stand today.
Calculate My Score →What Does Australian Skilled Migration Cost?
All fees from 1 July 2026. Verify current fees at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
Government visa application fees
| Item | 189 | 190 | 491 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary applicant | $6,135 | $6,140 | $6,140 |
| Partner (18+) | $3,070 | $3,070 | $3,070 |
| Child (under 18) | $1,540 | $1,540 | $1,540 |
| State nomination fee | None | $200–$500 | $200–$500 |
| Subclass 191 (491 only) | N/A | N/A | $475 |
Additional costs (estimates)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Skills assessment | AUD $350–$1,815 |
| English test (IELTS/PTE) | AUD $330–$435 |
| Medical examination | AUD $300–$500 per person |
| Police clearances | AUD $42+ per country |
| Migration agent (optional) | AUD $3,000–$7,950 |
Typical total estimates (AUD, no agent)
Single applicant (189):
~$7,500–$10,000
Skills + English + medical + police + visa
Family of three (189):
~$12,000–$16,000
Individual costs vary by occupation, English history, and country of residence.
Do You Need a MARA-Registered Migration Agent?
You are not legally required to engage a migration agent to apply for Australian PR. However, given the complexity of the process and the serious consequences of errors, many applicants choose professional assistance.
When professional advice adds significant value:
- ✓Your skills assessment was negative, agents know how to respond
- ✓Your occupation is borderline for your nominated ANZSCO code
- ✓Your work experience dates are complex or have gaps
- ✓Your relationship status changed between invitation and lodgement
- ✓You have previous visa refusals or character considerations
- ✓Your English test results are inconsistent across sittings
- ✓You are choosing between occupation codes with different outcomes
When you can self-manage effectively:
- ✓Your occupation clearly matches your ANZSCO code
- ✓Your skills assessment is straightforward and positive
- ✓Your score is competitive and your documents are in order
- ✓You have the time and patience to navigate the process carefully
Finding a MARA agent
Only MARA-registered agents are legally authorised to provide migration advice in Australia for a fee. Search the public register at register.mara.gov.au to verify any agent's registration. Typical agent fees: AUD $3,000–$7,950 for a full application. Some agents charge by stage (skills assessment, EOI, lodgement).
This site provides information, not advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a MARA-registered agent.
All PR Points Guides and Resources
Use these guides to go deeper on any topic covered in this overview.
How the Points Test Works: Complete Guide
All 13 Schedule 6D categories explained with worked examples, the combined work experience cap, and single-applicant partner points.
Subclass 189: Skilled Independent Visa
Eligibility, invitation cutoffs by occupation, application process, documents, costs, and processing times.
Subclass 190: Skilled Nominated Visa
State nomination process, +5 bonus points, all 8 states compared, cost breakdown, and processing times.
Subclass 491: Skilled Work Regional Visa
+15 bonus points, which cities are regional (Perth, Adelaide included), the 191 PR pathway, income threshold, and conditions.
2026 Points Test Reform: Complete Guide
What the Budget confirmed, what is proposed, the July 2027 timeline, and what you should do right now.
How to Increase Your PR Points
Strategy guide with decision framework, which improvement to pursue first based on your current score.
Which State Should I Nominate For
Complete state comparison, occupation focus, fees, allocation, score thresholds, and a decision matrix.
SkillSelect and EOI: Complete Guide
How SkillSelect works, the date of effect tiebreaker, invitation rounds, and what happens after your invitation.
ACS Skills Assessment, ICT Guide
All three ACS pathways, fees, processing times, RPL requirements, and the complete skills assessment body hub.
Student Visa to PR Pathway
The definitive 2026 strategy for international graduates, explaining the 485 visa, study bonuses, and realistic timelines.
Australia PR for Indian Professionals
Practical guide to Australia PR points for Indian professionals. Explore pathways, English tests, and NAATI CCL opportunities.
Is the Professional Year Worth It?
A detailed analysis of whether the AUD $12k+ investment and 44 weeks is worth the 5 migration points.
Medical Laboratory Scientist PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Medical Laboratory Scientists (ANZSCO 234611).
Agricultural Scientist PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Agricultural Scientists (ANZSCO 234112).
Financial Analyst PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Financial Analysts (ANZSCO 132211).
HR Manager PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for HR Managers (ANZSCO 132311).
Electrical Engineer PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Electrical Engineers (ANZSCO 233311).
Marketing Manager PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 190 and 491 visas for Marketing Managers (ANZSCO 131112).
Pharmacist PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 190 and 491 visas for Pharmacists (ANZSCO 251511).
Psychologist PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Psychologists (ANZSCO 272299).
Telecommunications Engineer PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Telecommunications Engineers (ANZSCO 263311).
Veterinarian PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Veterinarians (ANZSCO 234711).
Systems Analyst PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Systems Analysts (ANZSCO 261112).
Architect PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Architects (ANZSCO 232111).
Construction Project Manager PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Construction Project Managers (ANZSCO 133111).
Graphic Designer PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 190 and 491 visas for Graphic Designers (ANZSCO 232411).
Radiographer PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Radiographers (ANZSCO 251211).
Speech Pathologist PR Guide
Requirements and competitive scores for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas for Speech Pathologists (ANZSCO 252712).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I start if I want to get Australian PR?
How long does it take to get Australian PR through the points test?
What is the minimum points score for Australian PR?
What is the difference between subclass 189, 190, and 491?
Do I need to live in a remote area for the subclass 491?
Can a single applicant with no partner still claim partner skills points?
How is the 2026 points test reform going to affect me?
Is it worth getting a Professional Year for 5 extra points?
How do I find my correct assessing body for skills assessment?
What does "date of effect" mean in SkillSelect?
Ready to Calculate Your Score?
Our free calculator covers all 13 Schedule 6D categories, shows your occupation's invitation history across subclass 189, 190, and 491, and identifies exactly which improvements would have the biggest impact on your score. No sign-up required. Results in 2 minutes.
Calculate My Score Now →Free to use. Based on Schedule 6D, Migration Regulations 1994. Updated July 2026. This tool provides estimates only, not migration advice.
This guide provides general information only and does not constitute migration or legal advice. All information is based on the Department of Home Affairs and Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations 1994 as at July 2026. Programme statistics sourced from the 2025–26 Migration Programme planning levels confirmed by the Australian Government. Immigration law and visa fees are subject to change. Always verify current requirements at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au or consult a MARA-registered migration agent before making application decisions.