Age limits and points: the invitation date controls
Age affects skilled migration in two ways: it contributes points, and the main points-tested 189, 190 and 491 pathways require the primary applicant to be under 45 when invited. Submitting an EOI before a birthday does not freeze age.
Key points
- Age is measured at invitation for the points categories and the under-45 requirement.
- Current bands are 25 points for 18–24, 30 for 25–32, 25 for 33–39 and 15 for 40–44.
- Turning 45 before invitation makes the main points-tested pathway unavailable even if the EOI was submitted earlier.
- A birthday can reduce or occasionally increase the EOI score; keep the EOI and planning assumptions current.
Current age-points table
| Age at invitation | Points |
|---|---|
| At least 18 and under 25 | 25 |
| At least 25 and under 33 | 30 |
| At least 33 and under 40 | 25 |
| At least 40 and under 45 | 15 |
The bands use exact birthdays, not calendar years. Someone aged 32 receives 30 points; the score changes on the 33rd birthday. Someone aged 44 can still satisfy the under-45 invitation requirement, but not after the 45th birthday.
EOI planning around birthdays
SkillSelect is a record of current claims, not a way to reserve an age band. Maintain a calendar for the next birthday, English and assessment expiry dates, and employment milestones. Recalculate the total and any nomination minimums before the date changes.
- Do not assume a state nomination process will finish before a birthday.
- Do not lodge an EOI with points that will not exist at invitation.
- Check whether a reduced age score also affects a jurisdiction's own selection threshold.
- Preserve a copy of the EOI and evidence at nomination and invitation.
After invitation
Home Affairs states on the 189 and 190 pages that turning 45 after invitation does not by itself prevent lodging the invited application. The applicant still must lodge within the invitation period and substantiate the invited score and every other criterion. Do not delay evidence checks because the age requirement was met once.
Planning at 40–44
This band currently contributes 15 points and leaves a finite invitation window. Focus on evidence already achievable, live occupation and nomination options, and pathways outside the points-tested program where genuinely applicable. Avoid services that promise a fast invitation based only on age. See our planning guide for ages 40–44.
Official sources to check before acting
These pages control over any summary on this website. Recheck them when you submit an EOI, accept a nomination or lodge a visa application.
Important Notice: The content on this page is for general information only. Australian visa policies and requirements are subject to change at any time. Always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most current and accurate information.