Understanding Australian PR Points: What Actually Counts as "Employed"?
- Leading Edge
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
If you are aiming for Australian Permanent Residency (PR) via a points-tested visa—such as the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)—your work experience is likely one of your biggest point contributors.
However, simply having a job isn’t enough. The Department of Home Affairs has strict definitions of what constitutes "skilled employment" for the purpose of earning points. Misunderstanding these rules can lead to claiming points you aren't entitled to, resulting in a visa refusal.
Here is a breakdown of what counts as "employed" to maximize your points safely.
1. The Core Definition: Paid & Relevant
To claim points for work experience, your employment must meet three foundational criteria:
Remuneration: You must be paid for your work. Unpaid internships, volunteer work, or work experience that only provides a stipend (intended merely to cover living expenses) does not count.
Relevance: The work must be in your nominated skilled occupation or a closely related occupation (within the same ANZSCO unit group).
Duration: You must work a minimum of 20 hours per week.
2. Hours Requirement: Part-Time vs. Full-Time
The Australian immigration system defines skilled employment based on a minimum hour threshold, not just by employment contract type.
Minimum Hours: You must work at least 20 hours per week.
Casual Work: Casual employment can count toward points, provided you average at least 20 hours per week over the period you are claiming.
FIFO & Variable Hours: For FIFO (Fly-In-Fly-Out) workers or shift workers, the department looks at the average hours worked over a specific period rather than a strict 20 hours every single week, provided it is documented in your contract.
3. The "Date Deemed Skilled" (Skills Assessment)
This is the most common mistake applicants make. You can only claim points for work experience gained after you have been deemed skilled by the relevant assessing authority.
For example, if you completed your Bachelor of Engineering in 2020 but only obtained your positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia in 2022, your work experience before 2022 generally cannot be counted for points, even if you were working as an engineer.
4. Australian vs. Overseas Experience
The points calculator awards different values for experience gained inside and outside Australia:
Location | Minimum Duration for Points | Maximum Points Available |
Overseas | 3 Years | 15 Points |
Australia | 1 Year | 20 Points |
Australian experience is generally worth more because it demonstrates your ability to operate within the local labor market.
5. Evidence Needed to Prove Employment for Australian PR
If you claim points, you must prove your employment. The Department requires:
Employment References: Letterhead, contact details of the supervisor, exact start/end dates, hours per week, and a detailed list of duties performed.
Payslips: Showing payment for the work claimed.
Bank Statements: Showing salary deposits matching the payslips.
Tax Records: To prove the employment was legitimate and recorded.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I claim points for working while on a Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
Yes, provided you did not breach your visa conditions (e.g., you did not work more than the allowed hours per fortnight) and the work was at a skilled level in your nominated occupation for at least 20 hours per week.
Q2: Does self-employment count for PR points?
Yes, self-employment counts if it is in your nominated occupation. However, you must provide extensive evidence, including business registration, tax returns, contracts, and testimonials from clients to prove your income and hours.
Q3: What if I took maternity/paternity leave?
Generally, only paid leave counts as active employment. Extended periods of unpaid leave may break the continuity of your employment for points calculation purposes.
Q4: Can I combine overseas and Australian experience?
You can accumulate points for both, but you cannot mix them to reach a threshold for a specific point bracket. For example, if you need 3 years for 5 points, you cannot use 1 year of Australian experience and 2 years of overseas experience to claim those 5 points.
Need Help Maximizing Your PR Points?
Navigating Australian migration law is complex. Leading Edge Migration specializes in skilled migration, helping you accurately assess your work experience, prepare your skills assessment, and submit a strong Expression of Interest (EOI).
Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you map out your pathway to Permanent Residency.
📞 Call us: +61 08 9221 8472
📍 Perth Office: Unit 3, 239 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, WA 6000
📩 Email: info@leadingedgemigration.com.au
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances
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