The Points System Explained

Australia’s skilled‑economic migration program allows applicants to pursue several visa subclasses—189, 190 and 491—using the points system. Each visa has different features, but all three rely on points as the core eligibility criterion.

• Subclass 189: Direct permanent residency, no sponsorship or nomination required. Highly competitive due to limited places.
• Subclass 190: Permanent residency with State/Territory nomination.
• Subclass 491: Provisional regional visa with nomination; can lead to permanent residency.

Because invitations are issued based on points ranking, understanding how points are calculated is essential.

How the Points Process Works

The process begins by determining how many points you can claim. The government provides an online points calculator, which is helpful—but many applicants misunderstand key criteria such as:

• What counts as relevant work experience
• How academic qualifications are assessed
• Partner points
• When points can actually be claimed

These misunderstandings often lead to incorrect self‑assessment.

What Happens if You Miscalculate Your Points?

When you lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI), SkillSelect does not verify your points. It simply accepts your estimate.

If you later receive an invitation, the Department will assess your points only after you lodge your visa application.

If the Department calculates your points differently

• If the Department’s calculation is equal or higher, your application continues.
• If the Department’s calculation is lower than what you claimed, your visa will be refused.

Once the Department has assessed your score, it cannot be changed, even if the error favours you. If the Department makes a mistake, your only remedy is a merits review at the ART.

This is why accurate points calculation is critical.

Common Mistakes When Calculating Points

1. Misunderstanding Relevant Work Experience

Work experience can be counted only if:

• It is skilled employment
• It is closely related to your nominated occupation (with limited exceptions)
• It was performed after you completed mandatory qualifications, training, or registration
• It is paid employment
• You worked at least 20 hours per week
• If performed in Australia, it must have been done with the correct work rights

If the skills assessment authority determines your skilled employment period differently from ANZSCO, the more favourable period may apply.

This is the most common area where applicants make mistakes.

2. Misunderstanding Qualification Points

Qualifications obtained overseas can be counted if:

• They are of a recognised standard equivalent to an Australian qualification
• They are relevant to your nominated occupation

If unsure, you can instruct VETASSESS to assess your qualification. Their determination is binding on the Department unless there are concerns about document authenticity.

VETASSESS considers multiple factors, including curriculum, institutional recognition, and academic level.

3. Partner Points

Partner points can be awarded if:

• You are married, or
• You are in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months

Applicants often fail to provide adequate evidence of the relationship. Although the evidentiary threshold is lower than in partner visas, documentation is still required.

4. Lack of Evidence

Even if your points are correct, your visa will fail if you cannot prove them. Common issues include:

• Insufficient evidence of work experience
• Incorrect or unverified qualifications
• Poor documentation of de facto relationships
• Missing or inconsistent records

5. Lodging an EOI Before Meeting All Requirements

Many applicants do not realise that:

• Skills assessment
• English proficiency
• Work experience
• Qualifications

must all be completed and valid before lodging the EOI.

If you lodge an EOI without meeting these requirements, you may still receive an invitation—but your visa will not be granted.

Why Professional Guidance Matters

Incorrect points, missing documents, or misunderstanding what counts as skilled employment can lead to refusal—even after receiving an invitation.

A competent migration advisor can help you:

• Correctly calculate your points
• Understand what counts as relevant work experience
• Determine your correct qualification level
• Prepare a complete evidentiary bundle
• Avoid mistakes that lead to refusal

At Chess Migration, we assist applicants in preparing strong, accurate applications, reducing the risk of incorrect points, poor evidence, or missing documentation.

Disclaimer

The above does not constitute migration advice. The law, though correct at the time of publication, may change. This information is intended as general guidance and may not meet your specific situation. Always seek the advice of a professional migration consultant.