Pool and pass mark will increase to 65 for the following three subclasses where an application is made on or after 1 July 2018 in response to an invitation given on or after 1 July 2018:
- Skilled-Independent (Permanent) Subclass 189
- Skilled-Nominated (Permanent) Subclass 190
- Skilled-Regional Sponsored (Provisional) Subclass 489
Transitional provisions
For visa applications made on or after 1 July 2018 in response to an invitation given on or after 1 July 2018 the pool and pass mark will be 65.
For visa applications made before 1 July 2018 in response to an invitation given prior to 1 July 2018 the pool and pass mark remains at 60.
Even though the cut off points for 189 applicants likely need higher (75 or more in most cases), where an applicant is state nominated 190 visa they will receive an invitation as soon as they are approved for state support and their points are at least 65. Where an applicant was aiming for 60 with 5 for state nomination, they may need to look at the state nominated 489, which offers 10 points for state support.
Related pages:
Affected visas:
Remote Work and Travel Now Clearer for 491, 494 and 489 Regional Visa Holders
New 186 TRT Rule Adversely Impacts Medical Practitioners’ PR Pathway
Tasmania – Health and Allied Health Occupations List (TSE Pathway)
Tasmania – TSE Priority Occupation List (2025-26)
Australia Migration Updates: Visa Processing Times, Program Levels, and New Visas – September 2025