How many points do I need for Australian PR?
The legal minimum is 65 points, which lets you lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect. In practice, invitations for the independent subclass 189 visa have recently gone to candidates with 80–95+ points in most occupations. State-nominated subclass 190 adds 5 points and regional subclass 491 adds 15, which is why most successful applicants at 65–80 points go through a state or regional pathway.
What gives the most points?
Age 25–32 (30 points), superior English — IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79+ (20 points), and 8+ years of skilled work in Australia (20 points) are the three biggest blocks. The fastest improvements for most applicants are retaking the English test (10 extra points from proficient to superior) and securing state nomination (5–15 points).
What are the steps after reaching 65+ points?
First obtain a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list, then lodge your EOI in SkillSelect, apply for state nomination if targeting 190/491, wait for an invitation round, and submit the full visa application within 60 days of invitation with health and character checks. See our complete Australia immigration visa guide and Australia visa processing times.