Australian PR Points for an Architect, ANZSCO 232111
Architects are highly skilled professionals in Australia, playing a crucial role in planning and designing buildings. Since this occupation sits on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), Architects have potential access to the independent 189 visa, as well as state-sponsored 190 and 491 visas. However, because migration rules and point cutoffs fluctuate, it is essential to understand the differences between these pathways and focus on maximising your points.
Subclass 189: Skilled Independent
Architect, MLTSSL status
This independent visa does not require state nomination. Invitations rely strictly on your points score and Home Affairs occupation ceilings, making it very competitive.
→ Subclass 189 guideSubclass 190: State Nominated
With +5 state nomination points
A popular alternative that requires securing nomination from a specific state or territory. Criteria vary significantly depending on where you apply.
→ Subclass 190 guideSubclass 491: Regional
With +15 regional bonus points
A provisional visa for those willing to live in regional Australia. The extra points offer a great boost, but it is conditional on state or family sponsorship.
→ Subclass 491 guideUnderstanding the Visa Pathways
| Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
|---|
| Nomination bonus | +0 points | +5 points | +15 points |
| Occupation list status | Eligible (MLTSSL) | Eligible (MLTSSL) | Eligible (MLTSSL) |
| Invitation data (ANZSCO 232111) | Not consistently published | Not consistently published | Not consistently published |
| Primary assessing body | AACA | AACA | AACA |
Please be aware that historical invitation cutoffs for specific occupations are not reliable guarantees of future requirements. Home Affairs does not regularly publish detailed breakdowns for every ANZSCO code.
→ View our monthly invitation round tracker for general trendsSkills Assessment for Architects
Securing a positive skills assessment is a mandatory step before you can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
Architect (ANZSCO 232111) is assessed by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA)
| Assessing body | Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) |
| Official website | aaca.org.au |
| Processing timeframe | 7 weeks (complete) to 12 weeks (incomplete) |
| Assessment fee | AUD $4,900 (Overseas Qualifications Assessment) |
| Qualification requirement | Accredited Architecture Degree (typically Master's equivalent) |
The AACA assesses whether overseas qualifications are equivalent to an accredited Australian architecture degree. It's important to note that a migration skills assessment is separate from formal registration as an Architect in Australia, which is a legally protected title requiring further steps.
⚠ Validity Warning: AACA migration assessments are typically valid for 3 years. Your skills assessment must still be valid at the precise moment you receive an Invitation to Apply for a visa.
State Nomination Options for Architects
Seeking state nomination requires meeting individual state and territory criteria, which change constantly.
| State or Territory | 190 / 491 Status | What You Need to Know |
|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | Check current program | Criteria are highly competitive and may demand onshore employment. |
| Victoria (VIC) | Check current program | Typically requires submitting a Registration of Interest (ROI) and meeting local work criteria. |
| Queensland (QLD) | Check current program | Conditions often apply regarding ongoing employment and regional residency. |
| South Australia (SA) | Check current program | Usually favours local graduates and those already residing in South Australia. |
| Western Australia (WA) | Check current program | Check the WASMOL lists to see if Architect is currently open to general or graduate streams. |
| Tasmania (TAS) | Check current program | Accessible pathways exist for local graduates and skilled employees working in the state. |
| Aust. Capital Territory (ACT) | Check current program | Uses the Canberra Matrix points system. |
| Northern Territory (NT) | Check current program | Strong preference is given to applicants already living and working in the NT. |
Note: State occupation lists and requirements are updated frequently. We strongly advise verifying the latest information on the official state or territory migration portals.
When considering state nomination, always check the exact eligibility requirements-such as having a job offer or a minimum period of residency-before lodging your EOI.
Strategies to Improve Your Points
Because the points test is competitive, consider these strategies to boost your total score.
1. English Language Skills
Achieving a Superior English score (e.g., IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79 equivalent) provides a massive 20-point boost. This is often the most direct way to increase your competitiveness.
→ English points guide2. Partner Skills
If you have a spouse or de facto partner who has Competent English and a positive skills assessment in an eligible occupation, you could claim up to 10 additional points.
→ Partner points guide3. Credentialed Community Language
Passing a NAATI CCL test in a recognised language gives you a straight 5-point addition to your EOI score.
→ NAATI points guideHow the Proposed 2026 Reform Might Affect You
⚠ Note: The 2026 points test reform is currently only a proposal. The existing Schedule 6D points system remains the active law until legislation passes.
The government has consulted on overhauling the points test. Proposed changes include raising the minimum points threshold from 65 to 70 and creating a system that better targets individuals with high incomes and superior English. If these reforms are enacted, senior Architects earning a high salary may find themselves at a distinct advantage, while junior applicants might face a more challenging minimum threshold.
→ Read more about the proposed points test reform