How to Score 65 Points for the Skilled Independent 190 Visa Simple Tips and Insights

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a permanent residency visa designed for Australia skilled worker nominated by one or more Australian states and territories to live, work and study anywhere within Australia's boundaries. You can sponsor eligible family members to join you - with eligibility eventually leading up to citizenship status once meeting certain criteria is fulfilled.

To qualify for a visa, applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and receive approval by state/territorial governments to apply. A minimum score of 65 points must be attained to qualify, although many candidates attempt to get higher scores so as to increase their chance of selection.

What is the Points-Based System for Subclass 190?

The Subclass 190 Visa evaluation system uses points-based evaluation criteria that take into account factors like age, English proficiency level, work experience and education to select individuals deemed capable of contributing positively to Australian economy. It aims to attract skilled individuals capable of strengthening the local economy.

While a minimum score for applying is 65 points, higher scores increase your chance of receiving an invitation to apply for visa.

Key Factors That Affect Your Points Score

Understanding how points are allocated can help you better prepare your application. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors:

• 1) Age: Younger applicants earn more points.
• 2) English proficiency: Higher language test scores can boost your points.
• 3) Work experience: Both overseas and Australian work experience count.
• 4) Education: Higher education degrees award more points.
• 5) State nomination: A nomination from a state or territory adds extra points.
• 6) Partner skills: Your partner’s qualifications can also contribute.

How to Score Points for Age

Age is one of the most significant factors in the points test. Points are awarded based on your age at the time of your EOI submission:

• 1) 18–24 years: 25 points
• 2) 25–32 years: 30 points
• 3) 33–39 years: 25 points
• 4) 40–44 years: 15 points
• 5) 45 and above: 0 points

As you can see, applicants between 25 and 32 have the highest advantage when it comes to age points.

English Language Proficiency

To qualify for the Subclass 190 Visa, you must demonstrate a proficient level of English. Points are awarded based on your performance in recognized English language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.

• 1) Competent English: 0 points
• 2) Proficient English: 10 points
• 3) Superior English: 20 points

Achieving a "Proficient" or "Superior" score can significantly boost your overall points.

Work Experience: A Crucial Factor

Work experience is another key component of the points system. Points are awarded based on the number of years you've worked in a skilled occupation, both inside and outside Australia.

• Outside Australia:

  • 1) Less than 3 years: 0 points
  • 2) 3–4 years: 5 points
  • 3) 5–7 years: 10 points
  • 4) 8+ years: 15 points

• Inside Australia:

  • 1) Less than 1 year: 0 points
  • 2) 1–2 years: 5 points
  • 3) 3–4 years: 10 points
  • 4) 5–7 years: 15 points
  • 5) 8+ years: 20 points

Combining both Australian and overseas work experience can maximize your score.

Educational Qualifications and Points

Educational qualifications also play a major role in your points score. Points are awarded based on the highest level of qualification you have:

• 1) Doctorate: 20 points
• 2) Bachelor's or Master's degree: 15 points
• 3) Diploma or trade qualification: 10 points
• 4) Other qualifications: 5 points

Ensuring that your qualifications are recognized in Australia is crucial for claiming these points.

State or Territory Nomination

An endorsement by one of Australia's state or territory governments can increase your score by five points. Each state and territory maintains their own list of occupations in demand to qualify for visa consideration.

Before applying, conduct research to find which state or territory best matches up with your skillset and career ambitions.

Boosting Your Score with Partner Skills

You can claim additional points if your partner meets certain criteria, such as being under the age of 45, having a suitable skills assessment, and demonstrating competent English proficiency. Partner points can be broken down as follows:

• 1) Partner has the necessary skills: 10 points
• 2) Partner has competent English: 5 points
• 3) Partner does not meet criteria: 0 points

If you are single, you can automatically claim 10 points.

Other Factors That Can Increase Your Score

Aside from the main criteria, there are a few additional ways to increase your points:

• 1) Community language skills: 5 points if you have proficiency in a language other than English.
• 2) Study in regional Australia: 5 points if you completed 2 years of study in a regional area.
• 3) Professional year in Australia: 5 points for completing a professional year in Australia.

These extra points can help push your score higher if you're close to the minimum requirement.

How to Maximize Your Points for the 190 Visa

If you’re just shy of the required 65 points, here are some tips to help boost your score:

• 1) Improve your English language score: Retaking an English test can help you earn additional points.
• 2) Gain more work experience: Even a few additional months can make a difference.
• 3) Consider state or territory nomination: Research different regions that may align with your skills.
• 4) Enhance your partner’s qualifications: Encourage your partner to take an English test or obtain a skills assessment.

The Application Process for Subclass 190

The application process for the Subclass 190 Visa consists of two main steps:

• 1) Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): You must lodge your EOI through SkillSelect. Your EOI will be ranked based on your points score.
• 2) Receive an invitation: If your EOI is selected, you’ll be invited to apply for the visa.

It’s important to ensure that your EOI is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any delays in the application process.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in the 190 Visa Application

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• 1) Inaccurate claims in your EOI: Double-check your information to avoid discrepancies.
• 2) Not meeting the eligibility criteria: Make sure you meet the minimum requirements for your nominated occupation.
• 3) Delays in obtaining documents: Start gathering your documents early to prevent delays.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once your visa application has been submitted, processing times vary based on its specifics and may take anywhere between six to eight months for processing - during this time the Department of Home Affairs may also ask for further documents or information that needs to be supplied before approval can be given.

Conclusion

Secure 65 points on the Australia Skilled Immigration 190 Visa may seem difficult, but with planning and preparation it's achievable. By placing emphasis on key factors like age, English proficiency, work experience and education you can maximize points and increase the chance that an invitation to apply will arrive for application. Each point counts and taking steps to improve it brings you one step closer towards making Australia home permanently.