The Subclass 189 visa is a skilled independent visa that allows workers to live and work permanently in Australia.
Applicants are assessed using a points-based system that considers factors such as age, skills, English language proficiency, work experience, and education.
As of 2025, many applicants are wondering if 70 points are sufficient to secure this visa.
This article explores the requirements, competition, and factors that influence the likelihood of obtaining a 189 visa with 70 points.
Understanding the 189 Visa Points System
The 189 visa requires applicants to meet a minimum points threshold. Each factor contributing to the points system has a set range:
- Age:
Maximum of 30 points for applicants aged 25-32.
Points decrease for older applicants, with no points for those over 45.
- English Language Proficiency:
Competent English (0 points).
Proficient English (10 points).
Superior English (20 points).
- Skilled Employment:
Australian work experience and overseas work experience are scored separately.
A maximum of 20 points can be earned for work experience.
- Qualifications:
A doctoral degree earns 20 points.
A bachelor’s or master’s degree earns 15 points.
Trade qualifications or diplomas earn 10 points.
- Other Factors:
Partner skills, state nomination, or regional study bonuses can provide additional points.
Is 70 Points a Competitive Score in 2025?
Increasing Competition
The 189 visa has become increasingly competitive due to high demand.
While the minimum threshold remains at 65 points, the actual cutoff often exceeds this. In recent years, cutoffs have ranged between 75 and 90 points for many occupations.
Occupation-Specific Cutoffs
Australia’s Department of Home Affairs uses a skills shortage list to prioritize certain occupations.
Each occupation has a unique points requirement based on demand and the number of applications received. Occupations in high demand, such as nurses or software engineers, may have a lower cutoff than others.
Impact of Policy Changes
Policy changes in 2025 may affect the competitiveness of the 189 visa. For example:
Targeted Invitations: Some occupations may receive priority processing.
Increased Quotas: More places in high-demand fields can lower the cutoff for specific occupations.
Focus on Regional Migration: Applicants with regional experience or studies may have a better chance.
How to Improve Your Score Beyond 70 Points
If you currently have 70 points, consider the following strategies to boost your score:
- Improve English Proficiency
Achieve superior English in an accepted language test to earn 20 points instead of 10. - Gain Work Experience
Additional years of relevant work experience can increase your points, particularly for Australian work experience. - Partner Skills
If your partner meets certain age, skill, and language requirements, you can earn up to 10 additional points. - Pursue Higher Education
Upgrading from a diploma to a bachelor’s or master’s degree can add up to 10 points. - State or Regional Nomination
Although the 189 visa is independent, state-sponsored visas like the 190 or 491 may provide additional points and improve your chances.
Alternative Visa Options to Consider
If reaching a higher score for the 189 visa proves difficult, explore other pathways:
Subclass 190 Visa (Skilled Nominated Visa)
This visa allows state or territory governments to nominate skilled workers. Applicants receive 5 additional points for state nomination.
Subclass 491 Visa (Skilled Work Regional Visa)
Designed for skilled workers in regional areas, this visa provides 15 additional points for regional nomination.
Employer-Sponsored Visas
Consider employer-sponsored options like the Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) visa or the Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) visa.
Factors That May Help 70-Point Applicants
- Occupational Demand
Applicants in occupations experiencing critical shortages may be invited with lower scores. - Regional Benefits
Applicants willing to live and work in regional areas may receive priority consideration. - Timing and Luck
Invitations vary by application round, and less competitive rounds may favor lower scores.
Conclusion
In 2025, 70 points may not be enough for a 189 visa in many occupations.
However, exceptions exist for roles in critical demand or applicants willing to explore regional migration.
Improving your score through English proficiency, work experience, or partner skills can significantly increase your chances.
Applicants should regularly check the Department of Home Affairs’ updates and consider alternative pathways like the 190 or 491 visas. Planning, persistence, and flexibility are key to achieving migration goals.