Namaste! I’m Chandan, a Migration Agent with heaps of experience helping people from all corners of the world move to Australia. Having made the journey myself from India in 2008, I’ve since helped thousands of skilled professionals from countries like India, Africa, Japan, China, UK, Philippines, Brazil, and many more achieve their Australian dreams. Let me share everything you need to know about the points system, starting with the most crucial information.
Current Points Requirements and Success Rates
Let me be direct about what you really need in 2025:
- Minimum requirement: 65 points
- Realistic minimum for an invitation: 85+ points
- Most successful applicants: 90-105 points
According to the Department of Home Affairs’ latest SkillSelect rounds, the competition is intense. From my diverse client cases, here’s what’s working:
Maximum Points Breakdown (How to Reach 85+)
- Age (25-33): 30 points
- English language: 20 points (Superior)
- Australian Study and Regional Study: 5-10 points
- Work experience: 5-20 points
- Qualifications: 10-15 points
- Relationship: 5-10 points
- Additional factors: 5-10 points
Source: Department of Home Affairs SkillSelect
Essential Components for Points Calculation
Age Points (Crucial Factor)
- 25-33 years: 30 points
- 33-39 years: 25 points
- 40-44 years: 15 points
Work Experience Points
- Overseas experience:
- 3-4 years: 5 points
- 5-7 years: 10 points
- 8+ years: 15 points
- Australian experience:
- 1 year: 5 points
- 3-4 years: 10 points
- 5-7 years: 15 points
- 8+ years: 15 points
- Maximum points allowed for employment is 20 points.
English Language Points
Test options for Superior English (20 points):
- IELTS (Academic or General): 8+ in all bands
- PTE Academic: 79+ in all sections
- TOEFL iBT: 94+ overall
Pro Tip: “Regardless of your English proficiency, dedicated test preparation is essential. I’ve seen many fluent English speakers surprised by the formal testing requirements. My clients from non-English speaking backgrounds often achieve superior scores through focused preparation.”
Current Costs (2025)
Essential costs to budget for:
- Skilled Independent visa (189): AUD 4,770
- Skills Assessment: AUD 1,000-5,000
- English Testing: AUD 445-460
- Medical, Police check can be additional factors
Strategic Approach to Application
Step 1: Skills Assessment (8-12 weeks)
- Choose correct assessing authority
- Prepare detailed documentation
- Allow time for additional requests
Step 2: Points Maximisation
- Complete English test early
- Consider regional areas (+5 points)
- Explore professional year programs
- Update qualifications if needed
Step 3: Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Submit only when maximum points achieved
- Keep all documentation current
- Monitor invitation rounds
Regional Opportunities
From my experience placing international clients:
- Additional 5 points for nomination
- Lower living costs
- Faster permanent residency pathway
- Higher visa grant rates
- Multicultural communities
Source: Regional Australia Institute
Common Challenges and Solutions
Based on thousands of successful applications I’ve handled:
Skills Assessment Challenges
- Engineering and IT need detailed documentation
- Professional qualifications recognition varies by country
- Payment evidence are crucial evidence
- Detailed statement of service from past employment can be challenge
Timeline Management
Realistic timeframes from my recent cases:
- Skills Assessment: 3-12 months
- English Test: 1-2 months
- EOI to Invitation: 3-12 months
- Visa Processing: 6-24 months
Stay Updated
Follow these essential sources:
- Department of Home Affairs website
- SkillSelect news bulletins
- Professional body updates
- WA nomination updates
Conclusion
Remember, this system rewards strategic planning and thorough preparation. As someone who started this journey from India and now helps people from all over the world, I can assure you that while the process is complex, it’s absolutely achievable with the right approach.
The beauty of Australia’s migration system is that it welcomes skilled professionals from every corner of the globe. Whether you’re from Asia, Europe, Americas, or Africa, the path to Australia is open to those who prepare well and persist.
Need specific advice? Consider consulting a MARA-registered agent who understands the unique challenges faced by migrants from your region. We can analyse your situation and develop a tailored points-maximisation strategy that considers your specific background and circumstances.
