AustraliaPR & Migration

Australia PR Step by Step (Part 2): Occupation Lists, Skills Assessment, Points and English Tests

By September 30, 2025October 31st, 2026No Comments
AustraliaSeries ยท Part 2 of 2 1-minute Short

Australian PR isn’t luck. It’s a points system.

Understand the four building blocks of skilled migration, and how to spot an agent who’s making promises nobody can keep.

  • Occupation list
  • Skills assessment
  • Points test
  • IELTS / PTE / OET / TOEFL

The four steps

  1. Check your occupation. Your job must appear on the relevant skilled occupation list for the visa you’re targeting.
  2. Get a positive skills assessment from the authority for your occupation, such as ANMAC for nurses, Engineers Australia or the ACS for IT professionals.
  3. Score enough points. Points come from age, English, work experience, qualifications and other factors. Higher scores improve your chance of an invitation.
  4. Prove your English with an accepted test: IELTS, PTE Academic, OET or TOEFL iBT, among others.
Expression of InterestYou lodge an EOI through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation.
Points matterBetter English scores are often the fastest way to add points.
State nominationStates and territories can nominate you, adding points and options.

How to avoid PR scams

  • Be wary of anyone who guarantees PR or a job. Nobody can.
  • Check that your migration agent is registered on the official Australian register.
  • Never pay for a “job offer” to get a visa.
Rules and occupation lists change often. A profile that qualifies today may not qualify next year, and the reverse is also true. Get a current assessment before you invest.

Frequently asked questions

How many points do I need?

The minimum to lodge an EOI is set by the government, but invitations often go to higher scores. It varies by occupation and round.

Is PTE or IELTS better?

Both are accepted. Choose the test you are most comfortable with and practise for the format.

Can nurses apply?

Registered nurses have long featured on Australia’s skilled occupation lists. You’ll need an ANMAC assessment and AHPRA registration to practise.

Get an honest PR assessment

Free consultation with Haven Overseas at our Kozhikode and Kochi offices, or by phone and WhatsApp.

Sources: SkillSelect, Department of Home Affairs, Skilled occupation lists, Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority. Details as of the video date.