Australia Migration & Points Assessment Engine

The legislated minimum pass mark for the Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) is 65 points. In practice, invitation rounds are competitive and most invited applicants score 80 points or more, with pro-rata occupations such as Accountant and ICT Business Analyst often requiring 90+.

Subclass 190 also requires a minimum of 65 points, but state nomination adds a further 5 points to your total. You must additionally meet the nominating state or territory's own occupation list, work experience and commitment requirements.

For 2026, the base application charge is approximately AUD $4,955 for Subclass 189, Subclass 190 and Subclass 491. Each additional applicant aged 18 or over adds roughly AUD $2,475, and each dependent child under 18 adds roughly AUD $1,240. Always confirm current charges on the Department of Home Affairs website before lodging.

Typical processing is around 5 to 12 months for Subclass 189 and Subclass 190, and 6 to 14 months for the Subclass 491 regional provisional visa. Times vary with document completeness, health and character checks, and occupation priority.

Yes. A positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated ANZSCO occupation must be valid at the time you are invited to apply, and it is required before you can submit an Expression of Interest that leads to an invitation.

Competent English (IELTS 6 in each band) earns 0 points and is the minimum requirement. Proficient English (IELTS 7) earns 10 points, and Superior English (IELTS 8) earns 20 points — the single fastest way for most applicants to raise their score.