Shipping to Australia Blog

Getting a visa for Australia all comes down to one thing – points.  Those applying for a General Skilled Migration visa, are evaluated through a detailed points system. Points are awarded for education, occupation, experience, English language ability, age, sponsorship and various other minor qualifications. The pass mark for independent applicants for an Australian Visa  is – 120 points, and for applicants with family sponsors – 100. You must also satisfy the health and character conditions.

Improving your score

Some of the criteria for the point system, such as age, are set. But there many other categories where you can improve your score, with effort.

Language

You score points based on your English ability. It may be worth taking the International English Testing System exam even if you qualify under the English passport rules. You can increase the number of points you earn by achieving a high score (seven or more on all four competencies) on this test. Fluency in one of Australia’s community languages, together with proven qualifications in that language, could gain you extra points.

Training and study

You can score points for most professions where training is specific to that qualification and it is on the current skilled occupations list. If your career does not fall into this category, make sure you include relevant completed qualifications to increase your score. If you have obtained nomination by a state or territory, you can add points to your score. Some occupations and visa applications must even be supported by this nomination. You can also gain points if you have completed a two-year study period in one of Australia’s low population growth areas.

Work experience

If you have had a previous job in Australia that you can add to your application, you can add more points to your score. Additional relevant study may also help you reach your desired pass mark, particularly if the qualification is given by Australian universities or examining bodies. If, in addition to being on the skilled occupations list, your profession is also on the Migration Occupations in Demand List your points will further increase.

Partner’s skill

You can even qualify for points based on your partner’s skills, provided he/she is included on your visa application and is not already an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

Age

Your age is the one factor relevant to the scoring process that is outside of your control. The younger you are, the higher the number of points you score.

Good luck!

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