If the qualifying pass mark is lowered at any time in that 2-year period, and the applicant s score is equal to, or higher than, the new pass mark, the applicant s case will be processed further otherwise the application will be refused. The points test awards applicants points for certain factors. Applicant clients seeking the Skilled Independent visa may be awarded points for the first 8 of the following qualifications, while applicants for the Skilled - Australian sponsored visa for all 9 qualifications. Not all occupations are listed. Applicants must therefore be carefully advised as to selecting an appropriate skilled occupation.
Most gazetted occupations require degree, diploma or trade level qualifications.
If an applicant has more than one occupation, it will be very important to select that which will maximise their points. Applicants who have completed an Australian qualification in the six months before they lodge their migration application are not subject to the above requirement. Generally, if the applicant is to receive points for the employment experience qualification, they must have been employed in that occupation or another skilled occupation for 36 of the 48 months before the application is made. If so, they will score 10 points if their occupation is one for which 60 points are available, and 5 points if it is one for which 40 or 50 points are available. Skill An extra 5 points may be scored if the applicant's spouse meets all of the above basic requirements.