Tips to Increase Your Immigration Score

Tips to Increase Your Immigration Score
Understanding the points-based system is crucial if you apply for Australian Permanent Residency (PR). The Australian immigration system evaluates candidates based on age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.
This guide explains how the Australia PR Points Calculator works and provides proven strategies to boost your score for a successful visa application (e.g., Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, 190, or 491).
How Does the Australia PR Points Calculator Work?
Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program requires a minimum of 65 points to qualify for an Expression of Interest (EOI). However, higher scores (85+) increase your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Key Factors in the Points Calculator
Category | Maximum Points |
Age (25-32 years) | 30 points |
English Proficiency (IELTS 8+ or equivalent) | 20 points |
Skilled Work Experience (8+ years overseas / 5+ years in Australia) | 15-20 points |
Education (PhD or Australian Bachelor’s/Master’s) | 20 points |
Australian Study Requirement | 5 points |
Regional Study (Subclass 491/190) | 5-15 points |
Partner Skills (if applicable) | 10 points |
Professional Year Program (PY in Australia) | 5 points |
NAATI/CCL (Community Language Credential) | 5 points |
Top 5 Tips to Increase Your Australia PR Points
1. Maximize Your English Test Score (20 Points)
- Aim for IELTS 8 (or PTE 79+) in all sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
- If you score IELTS 7 (PTE 65), you get 10 points—but IELTS 8 gives 20 points.
- Consider retaking the test if needed.
2. Gain More Work Experience (15-20 Points)
- 3-5 years overseas work experience = 5-10 points.
- 8+ years overseas experience = 15 points.
- Australian work experience (1-5+ years) adds extra points.
3. Study in Australia (5-10 Points)
- Completing 2+ years of study in Australia gives 5 points.
- Studying in a regional area (e.g., Adelaide, Perth, Tasmania) adds 5 extra points.
4. Get State Nomination (Subclass 190) or Regional Visa (491) – 5-15 Points
- A Subclass 190 (State Nominated Visa) gives +5 points.
- A Subclass 491 (Regional Visa) gives +15 points.
5. Additional Points Boosters
- NAATI/CCL Certification (5 points) – Prove proficiency in a community language (e.g., Mandarin, Hindi).
- Professional Year Program (PY) (5 points) – Ideal for IT, engineering, and accounting professionals.
- Partner Skills (5-10 points) – If your spouse meets skill/English requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Underestimating English test scores – Even a 0.5 band increase can mean +10 points.
❌ Not claiming all eligible work experience – Part-time or overseas roles may count.
❌ Ignoring state nomination options – Subclass 190/491 can be easier than 189.
❌ Missing deadlines – Points decrease after age 33.
Next Steps: How to Apply for Australia PR?
- Check your occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Take an English test (IELTS/PTE).
- Get skills assessed by the relevant authority (e.g., Engineers Australia, ACS).
- Submit an EOI via SkillSelect.
- Wait for an ITA and apply for the visa.
Need Help with Your PR Application?
If you’re unsure about calculating your points or improving your score:
- Consult a registered migration agent (RMA).
- Use an official points calculator (e.g., Australian Government’s Points Test).
- Retake English tests or gain extra qualifications.
Final Thoughts
Increasing your Australia PR points requires strategic planning. Focus on English proficiency, work experience, and regional opportunities to maximize your score.
Need personalized advice? Contact us for expert guidance!
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