The Australian Government has announced a full review of the skilled migration points test used for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas. This is the first major overhaul since the current test framework was introduced in 2012.
Important: no new point allocations are law yet. Until the Department of Home Affairs publishes updated legislative instruments, the existing points test continues to apply to all new EOIs and invitations.
Indicative reform timeline (subject to consultation and parliamentary process):
- •Consultation paper: June 2026
- •Submissions close (approx.): August 2026
- •Exposure draft legislation: December 2026
- •New test expected in force: from 1 July 2027
The Government has stated it intends to optimise the test to better select younger, more highly educated, and higher-skilled migrants who support long-term productivity. Industry commentary suggests possible directions include stronger weighting for English and partner skills, and recalibration of Australian study and regional bonuses — but these are not confirmed.
A proposed increase in the minimum EOI threshold from 65 to 70 points has been discussed in policy commentary. Even if adopted, invitation cutoffs for many occupations (especially subclass 189) are often well above 70 in practice.
Transitional arrangements are expected to protect applicants who receive an invitation under the current test before the new rules take effect. If you already hold an invitation, check your ImmiAccount and official announcements for your specific case.
VisaBridge's points calculator uses the current test only. A proposed 2027 version will be added here when official tables are published. Always verify requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website or with a registered migration agent.