Looking to increase your points for General Skilled Migration? The minimum number of points to get invited is 65, but most applicants need higher points. Don’t worry, there are still ways to increase your points with the right strategy. Here are some proven tips for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) that actually work.
Not sure how many points you currently have or how to improve them? You can check your PR chances or explore your options to study or migrate to Australia with Pathway to Aus.
How the Subclass 189 Visa Points System Works
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) lets invited workers with skills needed to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia. You don’t need a sponsor for this visa, however, you have to be under 45 years old at time of invitation to apply.
Your points are based on your age, English level, work experience, and education. Your points will determine your ranking in the Department of Home Affairs SkillSelect.
The higher your points, the higher your chances are of being invited, which is why it’s important to increase your points strategically.
Improve your English Test Score
One of the fastest ways to increase your points is to improve your English test score. You can do this by preparing well before you take an accredited English test and gaining a higher score. The two most important English tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Pearson Test of English (PTE). The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular English proficiency test for higher education and global migration, trusted by governments and employers. Pearson Test of English (PTE) provides secure English language testing for study applications worldwide, and for visa applications for work and migration in Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and Canada. You can take either of these tests.
There are three categories for the level of English: Competent, which gives you 0 points, Proficient, which adds 10 points, and finally Superior, which adds 20 points. It is best to aim for a Superior level of English to gain the maximum points. Even a small improvement in your test score can significantly increase your points.
Take the NAATI CCL Test
The National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters Credentialed Community Language Test (NAATI CCL) assesses your ability to communicate between English and another language. This is generally taken by people who want to apply for a points-based skilled migration visa in Australia. This test is available in many different languages. It’s a short test compared to others and also adds 5 points to your application score. This is one of the easiest ways to increase your points so don’t miss it!
Study in Australia
Another effective way to increase your points is to study in Australia. If you study in Australia and study in the right area, you can gain an additional 5-10 points. If you’re willing to study for a Master’s or Doctor’s degree, your points can increase even further. There are additional benefits to studying in Australia. One is that it opens other pathways such as the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) which allows you to live, study and work in Australia temporarily after you have finished your studies while improving your PR eligibility. Do note that the Subclass 485 has certain eligibility requirements, please book a consultation to discuss this further
If you’re considering this pathway, you might want to explore getting a student visa and browse trade courses on the Pathway to Aus website.
Partner Points
Another valuable, but often overlooked way to increase your points is through partner points. If you have a partner, they can potentially add 5-10 points to your application score. However, your partner must have a suitable skills assessment, have Competent level English, and be under 45 as well.
Not sure if your partner can help increase your points or which option is best? Reach out to Pathway to Aus! You can also explore other visa options available to you.
Other Way to Increase Points
There are several other ways to increase your points. One factor that affects your points is your work experience. If you are able to gain more experience, the higher your points will be. More years mean more points. Another is to complete regional study in Australia. Professional year programs can also potentially help increase your points. Finally, you can also explore other pathways such as State Nomination (491/190 visas). All of these strategies can help you increase your points and improve your chances of receiving an invitation.
Can I Get a Job in Australia Without Qualifications?
Yes, it is possible to get a job in Australia without formal qualifications, especially in industries such as hospitality, retail, cleaning, and labouring roles. However, if your goal is to increase your points for the 189 visa or move towards permanent residency, most pathways require: a relevant qualification, a positive skills assessment, and work experience in a skilled occupation. This means that while you may be able to find short-term or part-time work without qualifications, it may not help you increase your points or qualify for PR. If you are serious about staying in Australia long-term, it’s important to focus on studying in Australia, gaining relevant work experience, and choosing an occupation that aligns with skilled migration.
What Strategy Works Best?
The best strategy to increase your points actually depends on several factors: your current points score, your occupation, and the general timeline of your application. The bottom line is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It all depends on your specific situation and long-term goals in Australia.
How Pathway to Aus Can Help
This is where Pathway to Aus can help. Our team of registered migration agents have helped many students and skilled workers successfully plan their visa pathways. Pathway to Aus can assess your current points, help you find the best strategy to increase your points, and guide your PR pathway. Furthermore, Pathway to Aus also helps with study pathways and visa options.
If you’re trying to increase your points for the 189 visa, it’s important to focus on the strategies that will give you the biggest boost. Book a consultation with Pathway to Aus as soon as possible!
