Australia Skilled Visas: Subclass 189, 190 and 491
Australia's points-tested skilled visas are by invitation. You lodge an expression of interest, are scored on the points test, and may be invited to apply.
Read the official rules on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
Rules change often. Last checked 4 October 2026; each figure links to the page we read it on.
Skilled Independent (subclass 189)
- By invitation only. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- You must be under 45 when invited. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- At least competent English when invited. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- A suitable skills assessment for your occupation. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- Points test pass mark: 65. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- Cost: from AUD 6,135 for the main applicant. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
Skilled Nominated (subclass 190)
- You need nomination by an Australian state or territory government. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- Pass mark: 65. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- Cost: from AUD 6,140. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491)
- A provisional visa for 5 years. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- You need nomination by a state or territory, or sponsorship by an eligible relative in a designated regional area. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- Pass mark: 65. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- Cost: from AUD 6,140. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
English test
- Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189): At least competent English when you are invited to apply. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
- Accepted tests taken from 7 August 2025 include IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CELPIP General, Cambridge C1 Advanced, the Michigan English Test, OET and LanguageCert Academic, at a test centre. At-home tests are not accepted. immi.homeaffairs.gov.au · read
Estimate your points with our Australia points calculator, then confirm with the Department of Home Affairs.
Not legal or immigration advice. Check every figure against the government page. What changed