Score 65 Points for Australian Work Visa Easily
Australia is one of the most sought-after destinations for skilled professionals looking to work abroad. The country’s immigration system is designed to attract individuals who can contribute to the economy, and it uses a point-based system to assess and select applicants for its Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189). To stand eligible for an Australian work visa, you must score at least 65 points on this system.
The point system takes into account various factors such as age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and more. Each of these factors carries a specific weight, and understanding how they contribute to your overall score can help you maximize your chances.
Let’s explore how you can accumulate points, section by section, to reach or exceed the minimum eligibility threshold.
How to Score Points for Australian Work Visa?
Below is a breakdown of the categories and the weightage each section holds in helping you reach the minimum points required for visa eligibility:
1# Age
The age of the applicant is one of the most important factors in the point system. Younger applicants are awarded more points as they are seen to have a longer potential contribution to the workforce.
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- 18-24 years: 25 points
- 25-32 years: 30 points (highest)
- 33-39 years: 25 points
- 40-44 years: 15 points
- 45-49 years: 0 points (ineligible for points)
2# English Language Proficiency
English is the primary language in Australia, so demonstrating proficiency in English through an approved test (such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL) can earn you valuable points.
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- Competent English (IELTS score of 6 or equivalent): 0 points
- Proficient English (IELTS score of 7 or equivalent): 10 points
- Superior English (IELTS score of 8 or equivalent): 20 points (highest)
3# Skilled Employment Experience
Work experience in your nominated occupation is a major contributor to your points tally. You are awarded points based on the number of years you have worked in your field, either inside or outside Australia.
Experience in Australia:
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- Less than 1 year: 0 points
- 1-2 years: 5 points
- 3-4 years: 10 points
- 5-7 years: 15 points
- 8 years or more: 20 points
Experience Outside Australia:
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- Less than 3 years: 0 points
- 3-4 years: 5 points
- 5-7 years: 10 points
- 8 years or more: 15 points
4# Educational Qualifications
Your level of education significantly impacts your total score. Higher qualifications, such as a doctorate or master’s degree, yield more points.
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- Doctorate (PhD) from an Australian institution or a recognized foreign institution: 20 points
- Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree: 15 points
- Diploma or trade qualification: 10 points
- Australian award or an equivalent qualification (Certificate III or IV): 10 points
5# Australian Study Requirement
If you have studied in Australia, you can earn extra points provided you meet the two-year minimum study requirement.
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- 2 academic years of study in Australia: 5 points
6# Partner Skills
Having a skilled partner or spouse can also increase your points. Your partner must meet age, English proficiency, and skilled occupation requirements.
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- Partner with skills and qualifications: 10 points
- Partner with competent English: 5 points
- Single applicants: 10 points
7# Specialist Education Qualifications
You can earn additional points if you have completed a specialist education qualification in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).
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- Specialist education qualification (Master’s or Doctorate in STEM fields): 10 points
8# Professional Year in Australia
Completing a Professional Year in Australia in professions like accounting, IT, or engineering can earn you extra points. A Professional Year is a structured, work-based learning program.
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- Completion of a Professional Year: 5 points
9# State or Territory Nomination
If you apply for a visa that requires state or territory nomination, you can gain additional points. This is an excellent way to increase your score if you are willing to settle in a specific region of Australia.
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- Nomination by a state or territory (subclass 190 visa): 5 points
- Regional nomination (subclass 491 visa): 15 points
10# Study in a Regional Area
Completing your study in a regional area of Australia adds to your points total. This initiative encourages skilled migrants to settle in less densely populated regions of the country.
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- Study in a regional area: 5 points
11# Accredited Community Language
You can receive extra points if you are fluent in a language recognized by Australia’s National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
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- Accredited in a community language: 5 points
12# Combinations of Work and Study in Australia
If you have a combination of Australian work experience and qualifications, this can help you score more points overall. For example, having both an Australian qualification and work experience in the country will strengthen your points tally.
Where to Calculate Your Points?
To calculate your points for an Australian Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), use the official points calculator on the Department of Home Affairs website. You can also consult registered migration agents or use self-assessment tools from trusted immigration websites to check your eligibility.
Example of Point Calculation
To give you an idea of how points are calculated, let’s take the following profile:
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- Age: 29 (30 points)
- Proficient English (IELTS 7): 10 points
- 5 years of work experience outside Australia: 10 points
- Bachelor’s degree: 15 points
- State or territory nomination (subclass 190): 5 points
Total: 70 points – This candidate meets the minimum 65-point requirement and stands a good chance of receiving an invitation to apply for an Australian work visa!
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