Points Test: Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa
Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa – Points Test Explained
The Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa uses a points based system to assess eligibility for skilled migration to regional Australia. Applicants must score the required points to receive an invitation to apply, and points are assessed at the time of invitation, not at the time of visa application.
This guide explains the points table, eligibility criteria, and how applicants can calculate their points accurately.
Overview of Points Test Criteria
The points test is designed to assess whether a skilled applicant can contribute to Australia’s regional workforce. Points are awarded across several criteria, including age, English language ability, work experience, qualifications, partner skills, and nomination or sponsorship.
The program is regulated by the Australian Government and administered by the Department of Home Affairs.
Age Points
Age plays a significant role in the points test, with maximum points awarded to applicants in their prime working years.
| Age | Points |
|---|---|
| 18–24 years | 25 |
| 25–32 years | 30 |
| 33–39 years | 25 |
| 40–44 years | 15 |
Maximum points are awarded to applicants aged 25–32 years.
English Language Skills
English proficiency is a key factor in skilled migration eligibility. Applicants who meet only Competent English receive no points, while those with Proficient English can claim additional points.
| English Level | Points |
|---|---|
| Competent English | 0 |
| Proficient English | 10 |
| Superior English | 20 |
Skilled Employment Experience
The Department awards points for skilled employment in your nominated occupation or a closely related occupation.
Overseas Skilled Employment (Outside Australia)
| Years of Experience | Points |
|---|---|
| Less than 3 years | 0 |
| 3–4 years | 5 |
| 5–7 years | 10 |
| 8+ years | 15 |
Australian Skilled Employment (In Australia)
| Years of Experience | Points |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 year | 0 |
| 1–2 years | 5 |
| 3–4 years | 10 |
| 5–7 years | 15 |
| 8+ years | 20 |
Note:
- Employment must be in your nominated or closely related occupation.
- You need to work at least 20 hours per week to claim points.
- Maximum combined points for overseas and Australian employment is 20 points.
Educational Qualifications
The Department awards points based only on your highest qualification.
| Qualification | Points |
|---|---|
| Doctorate (Australian or recognised overseas) | 20 |
| Bachelor degree (Australian or recognised overseas) | 15 |
| Diploma or trade qualification (Australian) | 10 |
| Qualification recognised by assessing authority | 10 |
Specialist Education Qualification
Applicants may claim additional points if they hold a Master’s by research or Doctorate degree from an Australian educational institution in a relevant field. The study must include at least two academic years and fall within approved science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or ICT disciplines.
Australian Study Requirement
Applicants can claim points if they have completed at least one degree, diploma, or trade qualification in Australia that meets the Australian study requirement. You must complete your study at an Australian institution and meet the required duration and attendance criteria.
Professional Year in Australia
Completion of a Professional Year program in Australia can attract additional points.
You must complete the Professional Year in accounting, ICT, or engineering in Australia within four years before your invitation, and it must be delivered by an approved professional body.
Credentialled Community Language
Applicants may claim points if they hold recognised accreditation in a community language. Accreditation must be issued by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) at the required level.
This criterion supports Australia’s multicultural workforce needs.
Study in Regional Australia
Additional points are available to applicants who completed their Australian qualification while living and studying in an eligible regional area. The study must meet Australian study requirements and must not include distance education.
Partner Skills
Partner skills can significantly increase an applicant’s points score.
Points may be awarded if the partner has competent English, a positive skills assessment in an eligible occupation, or if the applicant is single or has an Australian citizen or permanent resident partner. The partner must meet age and visa requirements at the time of invitation.
Nomination or Sponsorship
Applicants can claim the highest points in this category if they were invited to apply after receiving a valid state or territory nomination or an approved family sponsorship.
The nomination or sponsorship must remain valid at the time of invitation for points to be awarded.
Example Points Test Summary
| Criteria | Example Points |
|---|---|
| Age | 30 |
| English language skills | 10 |
| Work experience outside Australia | 5 |
| Work experience in Australia | 5 |
| Educational qualifications | 15 |
| Australian study requirement | 5 |
| Specialist education qualification | 10 |
| Credentialled community language | 5 |
| Study in regional Australia | 5 |
| Partner skills | 5 |
| Professional Year in Australia | 5 |
| Nomination or sponsorship | 15 |
Total Example Points: 115
Your total points may vary depending on your individual circumstances.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the points test is a crucial step in planning your pathway to skilled migration in Australia. By carefully assessing factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and partner skills, you can accurately calculate your eligibility and improve your chances of a successful application. Preparing all relevant documentation and seeking expert guidance can make the process smoother and help you make informed decisions about your migration journey. You can also take legal support for this process.
Need Legal Help or Consultation?
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests related to the legal matter, please contact us at:
Emigrate Lawyers
Email: info@emigratelawyers.com
WhatsApp: 0458 745 646
Phone: 1300 807 134
Text Us: 0483 959 572
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