Australia’s Permanent Residency (PR) pathway for skilled workers operates on a points-based system. This system assesses applicants based on various factors to determine their eligibility for migration. The higher your points, the better your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR.
The PR points system is a structured method used by the Australian government to evaluate potential immigrants under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. Points are awarded based on criteria such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, and educational qualifications.
Achieving the minimum required points is essential to be considered for PR. However, meeting just the minimum doesn’t guarantee an invitation. Higher points increase your competitiveness in the pool of applicants, enhancing your chances of selection.
As of 2025, the minimum points required to be eligible for Australia PR under the GSM program is 65. This applies to visa subclasses 189 (Skilled Independent), 190 (Skilled Nominated), and 491 (Skilled Work Regional).
Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent): Requires at least 65 points without any state or family sponsorship.
Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated): Requires state nomination, which adds 5 points to your total score.
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional): Requires regional nomination or family sponsorship, adding 15 points to your total score.
Age plays a significant role in the points calculation:
18-24 years: 25 points
25-32 years: 30 points
33-39 years: 25 points
40-44 years: 15 points
45 and above: 0 points
Your English skills are assessed through standardized tests:
Competent English: 0 points
Proficient English: 10 points
Superior English: 20 points
Points are awarded for skilled work experience:
Overseas Experience:
3-5 years: 5 points
5-8 years: 10 points
8-10 years: 15 points
Australian Experience:
1 year: 5 points
3 years: 10 points
5 years: 15 points
8 years: 20 points
Recognized qualifications earn points:
Doctorate: 20 points
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: 15 points
Australian Diploma or Trade Qualification: 10 points
Completing at least two years of study in Australia can add 5 points to your total score.
A Master’s degree by research or a Doctorate from an Australian educational institution in a relevant field can earn you an additional 10 points.
If your partner meets certain criteria, you can gain extra points:
Skilled Partner: 10 points
Competent English: 5 points
Single Applicant: 10 points
State or territory nomination and family sponsorship can significantly boost your points:
