Australia PR Points Calculator

How the Australia PR Points System Works

Australia's General Skilled Migration (GSM) program uses a points-based system to assess applicants for permanent residency. The Department of Home Affairs awards points across several categories including age, English language proficiency, work experience, educational qualifications, and various bonus factors. To be eligible to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, you need a minimum of 65 points. However, the actual invitation score for most occupations is significantly higher, often between 80 and 95 points depending on the occupation and invitation round.

The points test applies to three main visa subclasses: Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent), which does not require state nomination or sponsorship; Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated), which requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government and adds 5 points; and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional), which requires nomination by a state or regional employer and adds 15 points. Each subclass has different residency and work requirements after the visa is granted.

Key Factors That Affect Your Points Score

Age is one of the most significant factors, with applicants aged 25-32 receiving the maximum 30 points. English language ability is equally important — achieving a Superior score (IELTS 8.0 or equivalent across all bands) adds 20 points compared to the baseline Competent level. Work experience points are split between overseas and Australian experience, with Australian work experience carrying more weight per year. A doctorate-level qualification earns the maximum 20 points for education, while additional points are available for Australian study, STEM specialisation, regional study, and NAATI-accredited community language skills.

Partner skills can also contribute to your total. If your partner has a skills assessment in a nominated occupation and competent English, you receive 10 points. If your partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or if you are single, you also receive 10 points. Only partners with competent English but no skills assessment receive a reduced 5 points.

Tips to Maximise Your PR Points

If your current score falls below the competitive range, there are several strategies to boost your points. Improving your English test score from Proficient (IELTS 7.0) to Superior (IELTS 8.0) adds 10 extra points and is often the fastest way to increase your total. Gaining Australian work experience is another effective strategy, as even one year of local experience adds 5 points. Consider applying for state nomination under Subclass 190 (5 points) or Subclass 491 (15 points) if you are open to living in specific states or regional areas. Completing a Professional Year program, obtaining NAATI accreditation for community language skills, or pursuing further study in a STEM field at an Australian institution can each add 5-10 points to your total.