Australia's points system for migration: how it works

The points system is the mechanism several skilled visas use to compare profiles. This is a general information guide — not a calculation for your case — about which factors score points, how the minimum score is used, and what its relationship with SkillSelect is. We promise no invitations; we point you to the official sources.

Which factors score points

Several factors contribute to the score: age, English level, work experience, education, and others such as partner status or Australian study. We don't give the exact values here; the official points table details how much each factor adds and is kept in line with current rules.

The minimum score and how it is used

For the points-based visas (189, 190 and 491) there is a published minimum score that must be reached to be considered for an invitation. Reaching it does not guarantee an invitation: it is an eligibility threshold, not a promise of outcome. The official points-tested stream page explains how the indicative score is assigned when you lodge your expression of interest.

The relationship with SkillSelect and invitations

SkillSelect is the official platform where you lodge an expression of interest (EOI) and where the government runs invitation rounds. Invitations depend on demand, occupations and program priorities, not on points alone. The official SkillSelect site and the invitation rounds publish what and when is invited.

Official tool vs third-party calculators

Third-party calculators exist, but only the government's own calculation and the official points calculator reflect the current rules. Outside tools may be out of date or oversimplify factors; use them as a guide, not as certainty.

The next step

The score is only one part of the picture; each occupation and each state has its own lists. If you'd like to look at how this applies to your case, contact us and we'll go through it with you.

General information · not individual legal advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-27 · Source: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au (points table, SkillSelect)