Whether migrating to Australia is hard is a big question for those considering it before deciding. The answer to whether migrating to Australia is hard depends on your profile, occupation, and points score. This article gives a frank analysis of the level of difficulty.
Whether migrating to Australia is hard: it depends on your profile and occupation
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether migrating to Australia is hard. For young applicants with a university degree, an occupation on the shortage list, good English, and a high score of 85+, the pathway can be smooth. For those lacking these factors, it is much harder.
A realistic assessment should consider: age (25-32 gets the maximum 30 points), English (Superior English gets 20 points), occupational experience, education, and whether the occupation is on the list. An accurate assessment helps you understand how hard your profile realistically has it.
Points competition is a major barrier
The minimum of 65 points to submit an EOI is very different from the actual competitive score needed to be invited. In 2025-2026, most occupations under the 189 stream require 85-95+ points. Some occupations such as IT, accounting, and engineering have large applicant pools requiring very high scores.
Visa subclasses 190 and 491 are easier thanks to state nomination points (5 or 15). However, you must also meet the state’s requirements (occupation, residency/work duration). Each state has its own occupation list and criteria.
Other deciding factors
Besides points, other deciding factors include: whether the occupation is on the MLTSSL/STSOL/ROL list, whether the Skills Assessment passes (some assessing authorities are strict), whether English reaches Superior level, and willingness to live in a designated area for the 491 visa.
Many factors can be improved: English can be upgraded, Professional Year adds points, and NAATI for a community language adds points. Regulations and lists may change; you should check the current conditions.
You should refer to official Home Affairs website and Home Affairs – Skilled visas to check current conditions.
Summary
Whether migrating to Australia is hard depends on your profile. Young applicants (25-32), with a university degree, a shortage occupation, Superior English, and a score of 85+ have an advantage. Points competition in 2025-2026: the 189 stream requires 85-95+ points despite a minimum of 65. Visa subclasses 190/491 are easier thanks to nomination points. You can improve through English, Professional Year, and NAATI. You should check the current conditions.
