Skilled migration
Points-tested visas for people whose skills stand on their own: the 189, 190 and 491, and an honest read on what a competitive score takes.
65 point pass mark$6,135 189 charge from 1 Jul 2026+15 points for regional 491
The skilled program is points-tested. 65 points makes you eligible; invitations go to the highest-ranked candidates, so competitive scores usually sit well above that, often 80 to 90+ for the Skilled Independent (189). State nomination (190) adds 5 points and regional sponsorship (491) adds 15, which is why strategy matters as much as the score.
The three visas
| Visa | What it is | Charge (1 Jul 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Independent (189) | No sponsor, no state. Permanent from day one. The most competitive queue | $6,135 |
| Skilled Nominated (190) | State nomination adds 5 points and its own criteria. Permanent | $6,140 |
| Skilled Work Regional (491) | Regional sponsorship adds 15 points. Five years, with PR through the 191 after three years living and working regionally | $6,140 |
How the process actually runs
Skills assessment
The assessing authority for your occupation confirms your qualifications and experience. Weeks to months; some assessments expire.
Expression of interest
Your claims go into SkillSelect and you're ranked against everyone else in your occupation.
Invitation & application
Invited candidates lodge within 60 days, with every claim evidenced. This is where thin files fail.
Raising a borderline score
The levers that move most applicants: a better English result (up to 20 points), a partner skills assessment, a professional year, the NAATI community-language credential, or targeting a 491. Age points only ever fall, and you must be under 45 when invited, so timing is strategy. A redesign of the points test has been under government consultation; as at July 2026 the current table still applies.
Not sure this is your pathway?
Two questions, no personal details. Get pointed in the right direction in under a minute.
Common questions
Is 65 points enough?
Rarely for the 189. It makes you eligible to lodge an expression of interest, but invitations go to the highest-ranked candidates, usually well above 65.
What is the age limit?
You must be under 45 when you are invited to apply. Points for age peak between 25 and 32.
How does the 491 lead to permanent residence?
Through the subclass 191, after three years living and working in a regional area while meeting income requirements.
Do I need a skills assessment?
Yes, a positive assessment from the authority for your occupation before you can be invited, and some assessments expire.
Speak with a registered migration agent
Open 8:30am to 5:00pm AEST, Monday to Friday. Level 10 & 11, 66 Clarence Street, Sydney.