Australia Points Calculator for Chefs (2026)

Chefs (ANZSCO 351311) are assessed by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA). TRA assesses trade occupations through the Migration Skills Assessment or Job Ready Program. Typical turnaround is 12–14 weeks and the indicative fee is AUD $1,190 (Migration skills assessment).

A Chef needs at least 65 points to be eligible, but competitive invitations for Subclass 190, Subclass 491 usually sit higher. Age, English level, skilled work experience and partner skills are the largest levers on your total.

Chef (ANZSCO 351311) appears on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), which supports Subclass 190, Subclass 491 applications. Occupation lists change — verify on the Department of Home Affairs website before lodging.

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.