Claiming Work Experience Points for GSM Visas – What You Need to Know
When applying for a General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa—such as subclass 189, 190, or 491—work experience can significantly increase your points. However, claiming these points isn’t as simple as listing previous jobs. Here’s what you need to know to get it right.
What Qualifies as Skilled Work Experience?
To claim points, your experience must meet four key criteria:
- Closely related to your nominated occupation: Your work must fall within the same ANZSCO Major Group. For example, Accountant (General) and Taxation Accountant are closely related as they are in the same Major group (2211). However, an Accounts Clerk is in a different major group and won’t count.
- Post-qualification and skilled: Only experience gained after you became suitably qualified for your nominated occupation counts.
- Minimum 20 hours per week: Part-time roles must be at least 20 hours per week and must be remunerated (paid).
- Based on job responsibilities, not title: Your job title doesn’t need to be an exact match. What matters most is whether your actual duties align with the ANZSCO occupation description.
Work Experience Points Breakdown
Australian Work Experience
Duration | Points |
1 year | 5 |
3 to <5 years | 10 |
5 to <8 years | 15 |
8+ years | 20 |
Overseas Work Experience
Duration | Points |
1 year | 0 |
3 to <5 years | 5 |
5 to <8 years | 10 |
8+ years | 15 |
Maximum combined claim: 20 points
Do You Need Your Employment Assessed?
Although it’s highly recommended to have your employment assessed by the relevant skills authority (e.g., ACS, VETASSESS), it’s not mandatory when claiming work experience points. Still, the Department of Home Affairs must be satisfied that your employment is:
- Skilled
- Closely related to your nominated occupation
- Meets the visa criteria
Supporting Documentation
To successfully claim work experience points, provide consistent, verifiable documents such as:
- Employer reference letters (detailed and on official letterhead)
- Payslips and tax records
- Employment contracts
- Position descriptions
- Superannuation records (for onshore work)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Claiming work before completing your qualification
- Using job titles that don’t match responsibilities
- Providing insufficient or inconsistent documentation
- Relying solely on resumes or self-written letters/declarations
Final Thoughts
Getting your work experience claim right can make or break your GSM visa application. While some aspects may seem flexible, the Home Affairs department applies these rules strictly. It’s not just about years worked—it’s about proving the right kind of work with the right kind of evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are GSM visa work experience points?
They are points awarded for skilled work experience when applying for Australian PR visas like Subclass 189, 190, and 491.
How many points can I get for work experience in Australia?
You can earn up to 20 points depending on years of skilled employment in Australia.
Does overseas work experience count for PR points?
Yes, but it offers fewer points than Australian work experience and must be closely related to your occupation.
What qualifies as skilled work experience for GSM visas?
It must be paid, relevant to your nominated occupation, post-qualification, and at least 20 hours per week.
Do I need a skills assessment for work experience points?
Not always mandatory, but it is highly recommended to validate your employment claims.
