Australia PR for IT Professionals and Software Engineers
Australia has strong demand for IT professionals, making skilled migration an attractive pathway for software engineers, developers, and other tech workers. However, IT is also one of the most competitive fields for PR.
Calculate your IT professional PR score with our PR Points Calculator.
IT Occupation Options for PR
Several IT occupations appear on the MLTSSL, making them eligible for all skilled visas:
All of these occupations are on the MLTSSL, meaning you can apply for the 189, 190, or 491 visas.
ACS Skills Assessment
IT professionals are assessed by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). This is the first major step in your PR journey.
What ACS Evaluates
- Your educational qualifications
- Your work experience in IT
- Whether your experience matches your nominated occupation
- Your skill level relative to Australian standards
Common Assessment Outcomes
ACS typically assigns one of these outcomes:
- Positive assessment: Your skills meet Australian standards
- Assessment with experience gap: You need more experience
- Negative assessment: Your qualifications/experience do not qualify
Processing Time and Cost
- Standard processing: 8–12 weeks
- Priority processing: 4–6 weeks (additional fee)
- Assessment fee: approximately $500–$550 AUD
Calculate your PR points as an IT professional.
Calculate Your PR Points →Competitive Scores for IT Professionals
IT is highly competitive due to the large number of applicants. Here is what you need:
189 Skilled Independent
Software engineers typically need 85–90+ points for 189 invitations. This is one of the highest thresholds across all occupations.
190 State Nominated
State nomination can reduce the threshold to 80–85 points. States like South Australia and Tasmania may have more accessible pathways for IT professionals.
491 Skilled Regional
The 491 with 15 bonus points makes 70–80 base points competitive. Regional areas with growing tech sectors may offer good opportunities.
Building a Competitive IT Score
1. Superior English (20 Points)
Many IT professionals already have good English. Achieving Superior English (IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79 in each section) adds 20 points — essential for competing in IT.
2. Work Experience (Up to 20 Points)
IT experience accumulates relatively quickly. 5+ years gives you 15 points, 8+ years gives 20. Ensure your experience matches your nominated occupation.
3. Education (15 Points)
A Bachelor or Masters in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related IT field gives 15 points. A PhD gives 20.
4. CCL Community Language (5 Points)
If you speak a community language like Mandarin, Hindi, or Spanish, the NAATI CCL test adds 5 relatively easy points.
5. State Nomination (5–15 Points)
State nomination is often essential for IT professionals to reach competitive scores. Research state tech priorities and apply accordingly.
Best States for IT Nomination
New South Wales
Sydney is Australia's largest tech hub. NSW has high competition but many opportunities. Points thresholds are typically 85+.
Victoria
Melbourne is a growing tech centre. Victoria often prioritises IT professionals in health tech, fintech, and other innovation sectors.
South Australia
Adelaide has a growing tech sector and more accessible nomination requirements. IT professionals with strong English and experience have good chances here.
Tasmania
Tasmania offers graduate and skilled pathways with lower points thresholds. Suitable for IT professionals willing to live in a smaller city.
Western Australia
Perth has a growing tech industry, especially in mining technology and cybersecurity. WA often offers accessible nomination pathways.
Example IT Professional Score
A 30-year-old software engineer with typical profile:
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25-32) | 30 |
| Superior English | 20 |
| Work Experience (5-7 years) | 15 |
| Bachelor Degree | 15 |
| Single Applicant | 10 |
| Total | 90 |
A score of 90 is competitive for the 189 visa. Adding CCL (5 more) gives 95 — very strong for any pathway.
Tips for IT Professionals
- Get ACS assessment early — it takes time
- Achieve Superior English — critical for IT competition
- Consider CCL — relatively easy 5 points
- Research state nomination — some states have lower thresholds
- Match your occupation code — choose the ANZSCO code that fits best
- Document experience well — ACS scrutinises work experience carefully
Calculate Your IT PR Score
As an IT professional, knowing your exact score helps you plan your migration strategy effectively.
Calculate your PR points as an IT professional.
Check Your PR Points Now →Disclaimer
This article provides general information for IT professionals seeking Australian PR. Requirements and invitation thresholds change. Always verify with ACS and the Department of Home Affairs.
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.