Doc Summary
Checking your eligibility for Australian skilled migration requires a clear review of your occupation, skills assessment, English language level, points score, age, health and character, and (if applicable) state or regional nomination. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you assess where you stand and how to strengthen your profile for visas such as the Skilled Independent (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated (subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491).
Quick answer: Steps to check your skilled migration eligibility #
- Confirm your occupation is on the skilled occupation list and find your ANZSCO code: Skilled Occupation Lists and ANZSCO.
- Identify the correct skills assessing authority and review criteria: Skills Assessment & Authorities.
- Calculate your points using the official tool: Points Calculator (aim for 65+; higher is more competitive).
- Check English requirements and valid tests (IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, Cambridge): English Requirement.
- Confirm age, health, and character criteria (generally under 45 at invitation, medicals, police checks).
- Review state nomination options (for 190/491) and eligibility: e.g., Victoria State Nomination.
- Create a SkillSelect EOI once you meet the criteria: SkillSelect.
Understand the main skilled migration pathways #
Australia’s skilled migration program prioritises occupations in demand and applicants who meet points-based criteria. The common visas are:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189): No nomination required; invitation is based on points and demand. See: Subclass 189.
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190): Requires state/territory nomination, often with its own criteria. See: Subclass 190.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491): Requires regional nomination and commitment to live and work in designated regional areas. See: Subclass 491.
Confirm your occupation and skills assessment #
Your occupation must appear on the relevant Skilled Occupation List, which maps to an ANZSCO code defining tasks and skill level. Once identified, locate the assessing authority for your occupation and understand the evidence they require (qualifications, transcripts, employment references, CV, RPL where applicable). Reference: Skills Assessment & Assessing Authorities.
Tip: If your qualifications are informal or experience-based, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may help align your skills to Australian standards and improve your skills assessment outcome.
Calculate your points score #
Eligibility for the points-tested visas (189, 190, 491) generally starts at 65 points, though competitive rounds may require more. Use the official Points Calculator to estimate your score across:
- Age (maximum points typically at 25–32)
- English proficiency (Competent, Proficient, Superior)
- Skilled employment (in and outside Australia)
- Educational qualifications (trade, diploma, bachelor, master, PhD)
- Australian study and specialist education
- Partner skills or single applicant points
- Nomination (5 points for 190) or regional sponsorship (15 points for 491)
Ensure your evidence matches your claims. Inconsistencies can lead to refusal.
Meet English, health, character, and age requirements #
For most skilled visas, you must demonstrate at least Competent English via approved tests (IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, Cambridge). Requirements vary by visa and assessing authority. See guidelines: English Requirement.
Additionally, you must satisfy health and character checks and be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation for most points-tested visas.
Consider state nomination or regional pathways #
State/territory nomination (190/491) can improve your prospects if your occupation is in a specific state’s demand list and you meet its criteria (e.g., residency, work experience, job offers, or study in that state). Each state publishes its own lists and requirements; for example, Victoria’s criteria are outlined at Live in Melbourne.
Lodge your Expression of Interest (EOI) #
Once you meet the baseline eligibility (skills assessment, English, points), submit an EOI via SkillSelect: SkillSelect EOI. This is not a visa application; it registers your interest and allows the Department (and states) to consider you for an invitation. Keep your EOI data accurate and update it if your circumstances change (e.g., new English scores or work experience).
Common pitfalls that affect eligibility #
- Choosing the wrong ANZSCO or misaligned evidence for tasks and skill level
- Over-claiming work experience without robust references or salary evidence
- Submitting expired English results or tests not accepted by the assessing authority
- Ignoring state-specific criteria (residency, employment, occupation caps)
- Missing the age cutoff at invitation stage
How Skills Campus can help you qualify #
As an Australian education, skilled migration, and RPL consultant, Skills Campus supports you to:
- Map your occupation to the correct ANZSCO and occupation list
- Prepare a successful skills assessment (including RPL pathways if suitable)
- Maximise your points score (English strategy, qualifications, partner points)
- Navigate state nomination requirements and strategy (190/491)
- Prepare and maintain an accurate SkillSelect EOI
Start with a personalised eligibility review and action plan tailored to your goals and timelines.
Next steps #
- Check your occupation, ANZSCO, and assessing authority using the links above.
- Complete an initial points calculation and identify gaps to reach a competitive score.
- Book a consultation with Skills Campus for a comprehensive eligibility assessment and migration plan: https://skillscampus.com.au.
Important: This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. Requirements change; always verify details on the Department of Home Affairs website and consult a qualified advisor.
Ready to check your skilled migration eligibility? Contact Skills Campus for expert guidance from assessment to EOI and beyond: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.
