Points-tested skilled visa
Best suited to: Skilled workers who meet the points threshold and get invited
Australia
Moving to Australia, route by route
Points-tested, state nominated or employer sponsored — Australia's options differ far more than they look.
- A skills assessment is usually required before you can be invited
- States and territories nominate candidates in demand locally
- Employer sponsorship is a separate track from the points test
Visa routes to Australia
Each route has its own eligibility rules. Use these summaries to decide which official pages are worth your time.
State or territory nomination
Best suited to: Candidates in occupations a region is short of
Employer sponsorship
Best suited to: Applicants with an approved sponsoring employer
Student visa
Best suited to: Students with a confirmed enrolment
What to know before applying
Australia's skilled migration system is largely points-based, with additional employer-sponsored and state-nominated routes that can improve your chances.
- A positive skills assessment comes before an Expression of Interest.
- State and regional nomination adds points and opens extra streams.
- Fees are high — budget per family member.
- Occupation lists change; check the current list for your job.
Australia immigration FAQs
- What score do I need for an Australian skilled visa?
- You must reach the published minimum points, but invitations go to the highest-ranked candidates in your occupation, so competitive scores are usually well above the minimum.
- Is there an age limit?
- Most points-tested skilled visas are limited to applicants under 45 at the time of invitation, with narrow exemptions.
- Can I study first and then apply?
- Yes. Australian study can earn points and a post-study work visa, which many graduates use to gain the experience needed for skilled routes.