Australia Points Calculator for Software Engineers (2026)

Software Engineers (ANZSCO 261313) are assessed by Australian Computer Society (ACS). ACS assesses ICT occupations, validating your qualification and deducting a number of years of experience before your skilled employment counts. Typical turnaround is 8–12 weeks and the indicative fee is AUD $530 (Skills assessment).

A Software Engineer needs at least 65 points to be eligible, but competitive invitations for Subclass 189, Subclass 190, Subclass 491 usually sit higher. Age, English level, skilled work experience and partner skills are the largest levers on your total.

Software Engineer (ANZSCO 261313) appears on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) & MLTSSL, which supports Subclass 189, 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.