Australia remains a dream destination for skilled migrants aiming for permanent residency (PR). Achieving 65 points in the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test is the threshold to qualify for PR, but it’s not a guarantee of success.
This guide walks you through the key steps, requirements, fees, timelines, and common questions about obtaining Australian PR in 2025.
How to Get 65 Points for Permanent Residency in Australia
The Australian PR process operates on a points-based system under the GSM program. The distribution of points is determined by factors like education, work experience, age, and English language skills. Applicants with at least 65 points can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. Higher scores, however, greatly raise your chances of getting invited.
Popular visa subclasses include:
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): For competent professionals without funding.
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): For candidates that have been nominated by a territory or state.
Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 491): For people who are prepared to reside and work in certain regional locations.
How to Achieve 65 Points
Here’s how you can accumulate points under the GSM criteria:
- Age
Applicants aged 25-32 earn the maximum 30 points. Points decrease with age, and no points are awarded for those over 45.
- English Proficiency
IELTS score of 7 or higher for English proficiency: 10 points.
Excellent English (IELTS score of 8 or higher): 20 points
- Skilled Work Experience
5 years away from Australia: 10 points
1-3 years in Australia: 5 points
5+ years in Australia: 15-20 points
- Educational Qualifications
Diploma: 10 points
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: 15 points
Doctorate: 20 points
- State or Territory Nomination
Depending on the visa subclass, it adds 5–15 points.
- Other Factors
Partner Skills: 10 points if your significant other is qualified.
Regional Study: Completing two years of study in a regional area earns five points.
Requirements
- Skills Assessment
It is required that you have a favorable skills evaluation for the vocation you have chosen. Jobs have to be on the appropriate Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- English Test
Tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL are accepted to demonstrate language proficiency.
- Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit an EOI in SkillSelect to be considered for an invitation.
- Health and Character
Candidates need to present their police clearance certificates and go through medical exams.
Visa Fees
The cost of the application depends on the type of visa and how many of applicants:
Primary Applicant: AUD 4,115 (subclass 190)
Additional Applicant (18+): AUD 2,055
Additional Applicant (under 18): AUD 1,030
Other potential costs include English tests, skills assessments, and health checks.
Application Form Opening and Closing Dates
The PR application process through SkillSelect does not have fixed opening or closing dates. EOIs can be submitted year-round, but invitations are issued during specific rounds. Keeping abreast of these rounds is essential.
Tips for Success
Stay Updated: Immigration policies, point thresholds, and occupation lists frequently change. Visit the Department of Home Affairs website on a regular basis.
Consult Experts: Professional migration agents can guide you through the complexities of the PR process.
Strategize: Focus on high-scoring areas like language proficiency and work experience to improve your profile.
Conclusion
Achieving 65 points for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia in 2025 is a highly attainable goal for skilled professionals, but it requires careful planning and strategic decisions. You can improve your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence by concentrating on the important factors that make up your points, such as age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and state nominations.
Top 6 FAQs About Permanent Residency In Australia (2025)
1. Will Australian PR in 2025 require 65 points?
While 65 points is the minimum, securing an invitation often requires higher points due to competition.
2. For skilled workers, which visa subclass is most suitable?
Subclass 189 is ideal for those with high points but no state nomination, while subclass 190 suits applicants with state sponsorship.
3. How can I improve my points?
Consider enhancing your English proficiency, gaining additional work experience, or pursuing a Professional Year Program (PYP).
4. What is a skills assessment?
Your degrees and work experience are evaluated by a skills assessment to see if they meet Australian standards for your occupation.
5. Can family members be listed on my application?
Yes, most PR visas allow you to include your spouse, de facto partner, and children.
6. How long does the process take?
The timeline varies, but after receiving an invitation, processing generally takes 6-12 months.
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