Skilled migration to Australia is usually points-tested and starts with a skills assessment, as Nanak Migration Group, a registered migration agent (MARN 2619467), explains. Core options include the Skilled Independent (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visas — each scored under the points test.
Six pathways. One points system.
Figures current as at 1 July 2026 — verify with Home Affairs
How the points test works
The points test assigns a numeric score to your profile based on six factors. The minimum to register an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect is 65 points — but in practice, invitation cutoffs for popular occupations run considerably higher.
Points are claimed at EOI submission and must be supported by documentation at visa lodgement. Overclaiming points is a serious matter — it can result in visa refusal and a PIC 4020 fraud finding.
Our agents calculate your verified score, identify legitimate strategies to improve it, and submit your EOI to reflect the strongest defensible position.
25–32 yrs → 30 pts (max). 18–24 or 33–39 → 25 pts. 40–44 → 15 pts. 45+ → 0 pts.
IELTS 8+ in all bands (Superior) → 20 pts. Proficient → 0 pts (minimum required). Competent not eligible.
Australian experience 8+ yrs → 20 pts. Overseas experience 8+ yrs → 15 pts. Points stack for both.
PhD → 20 pts. Bachelor or Masters → 15 pts. Diploma or trade qualification → 10 pts.
2+ years of Australian study → 5 pts. Study must be at a registered institution in a principal course.
Skilled partner → 10 pts. State nom (190) → +5. Regional nom (491) → +15. NAATI credentialled interpreter → 5 pts.
Figures current as at 1 July 2026 — verify with Home Affairs
189 vs 190 vs 491
Figures current as at 1 July 2026 — verify with Home Affairs
How many points might you score?
This estimator covers three factors — age, English, and overseas experience. A full score also includes qualifications, Australian experience, and nomination bonuses. Use this to get a baseline before a formal assessment.
Figures current as at 1 July 2026 — verify with Home Affairs
Partial score only — full score includes qualifications, Australian experience, nomination bonuses. Figures current as at 1 July 2026 — verify with Home Affairs.
Skills assessment before you apply
Most skilled visa applicants must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority before submitting an EOI. The body depends on your ANZSCO occupation code.
Which body applies to you? The relevant assessing authority depends on your ANZSCO occupation code — not just your job title. Our registered agents confirm the correct body and manage the assessment on your behalf.
Skilled migration FAQs
This information is general in nature and does not constitute immigration assistance or legal advice for any individual situation. Requirements including occupation lists, fees and processing criteria change without notice.
Nanak Migration Group Pty Ltd makes no representation that information on this site is complete, current or applicable to your circumstances. Nothing here guarantees, implies or represents any visa outcome, approval likelihood or processing time.
Obtain advice tailored to your situation from a registered migration agent or Australian legal practitioner. Navpreet Aulakh, MARN 2619467, is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority.
Information current as at August 2026. Verify all requirements with the Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) before lodging any application.