How to Calculate Your Australia PR Points: A Step-by-Step Guide?

If you’re considering applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia, you’re embarking on an exciting journey that offers numerous benefits, including access to Australia’s world-class healthcare, education, and job opportunities. However, the Australian government has set specific eligibility criteria, and one crucial aspect is calculating your PR points accurately. These points determine your eligibility and play a significant role in the immigration process.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of calculating your Australia PR points, step by step. We’ll also highlight the importance of consulting a visa consultant to ensure you navigate this complex journey successfully.

Understanding the Australia PR Points System:

The Australian government employs a points-based system to assess the eligibility of skilled workers who want to apply for PR. To qualify, you need to accumulate a minimum number of points based on various factors, such as age, education, work experience, English language proficiency, and more.

Key Factors Contributing to PR Points:

I. Age: The younger you are, the more points you can claim, with the maximum points typically awarded to applicants between 25 and 32 years.

II. English Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English, demonstrated through standardized tests like IELTS, can significantly boost your points.

III. Skilled Employment: The number of years you’ve spent working in your nominated occupation can earn you additional points.

IV. Education: Higher educational qualifications, such as a Master’s or Ph.D., can contribute to your points.

V. Australian Study: Completing at least two years of study in Australia can earn you extra points.

VI. Regional Study: Studying in regional areas of Australia can also provide you with additional points.

VII. Nomination by a State or Territory: If a state or territory in Australia nominates you, you can claim extra points.

VIII. Partner Skills: If your partner meets certain criteria related to age, English proficiency, and skills, you can earn points.

IX. Professional Year: Completing a Professional Year program in Australia can add points to your score.

Step-by-Step Guide to Calculating Your PR Points:

Let’s delve into a step-by-step process for calculating your Australia PR points.

A. Determine Your Eligibility — Before diving into point calculations, ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements for the specific visa subclass you’re applying for. Typically, you’ll need to have the appropriate skills and qualifications in a nominated occupation listed on the relevant skills list.

B. Assess Your Age — Determine your age at the time of application and allocate points accordingly. Remember that maximum points are typically awarded to applicants between 25 and 32 years.

C. Evaluate Your English Language Proficiency — Take an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS or PTE, and determine the points you can claim based on your scores. Different bands correspond to different point values.

D. Assess Your Skilled Employment — Calculate the number of years you’ve spent working in your nominated occupation. More years equate to more points.

E. Evaluate Your Education — Consider your highest educational qualification. Degrees, diplomas, and trade qualifications can all contribute to your points total.

F. Factor in Australian Study — If you’ve completed at least two years of study in Australia, you can claim additional points.

G. Account for Regional Study — Studying in regional areas can earn you extra points, so check if your study location qualifies.

H. Consider Nomination by a State or Territory — If you’ve received a nomination from an Australian state or territory, you can claim these valuable points.

I. Include Partner Skills — If applicable, consider your partner’s skills and their ability to contribute points to your application.

J. Account for Professional Year — If you’ve completed a Professional Year program, allocate the points accordingly.

K. Calculate Your Total Points — Sum up the points from each category to determine your total PR points.

The Role of a Visa Consultant:

Navigating the Australian PR points system and the overall immigration process can be daunting. This is where a visa consultant plays a pivotal role. Visa consultants are experienced professionals helping applicants successfully secure their visas. Here’s how they can assist you:

1) Assessment: Visa consultants assess your eligibility and guide you on the most suitable visa subclass.

2) Documentation: They assist in gathering and preparing the necessary documents, ensuring your application is complete and accurate.

3) Point Calculation: Consultants calculate your PR points accurately, maximizing your chances of meeting the required threshold.

4) State Nomination: If applicable, they help you secure state or territory nominations, increasing your points.

5) Skill Assessment: Consultants guide you through the skill assessment process, a crucial step for many visa subclasses.

6) Application Lodgement: They handle the application submission, ensuring it complies with all regulations and deadlines.

7) Updates and Communication: Consultants keep you informed about your application’s progress and communicate with immigration authorities on your behalf.

8) Visa Interview Preparation: If an interview is required, they help you prepare for it.

In conclusion, calculating your Australia PR points is a pivotal step in your immigration journey. Accurate point calculation is essential for securing an invitation to apply for PR. However, the immigration process can be complex, and the rules may change. This is why it’s highly recommended to seek the assistance of a visa consultant who can provide expert guidance and support throughout your PR application process, increasing your chances of success. So, if you’re considering Australia as your future home, start by calculating your PR points and considering the invaluable assistance of a visa consultant to help you realize your dream of Australian Permanent Residency.

Originally published at https://medium.com on September 28, 2023.