For the subclass 491 regional visa, you need at least Competent English to apply (PTE Academic Listening 47, Reading 48, Writing 51, Speaking 54), which adds 0 points. Proficient English adds 10 points (L58, R59, W69, S76) and Superior English adds 20 points (L69, R70, W85, S88). The points test pass mark is 65, and state nomination or eligible family sponsorship adds 15 points.
We are PTE coaches, not migration agents. The 2026-27 Federal Budget announced reforms to the points test, so confirm the current rules with Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
English points for the 491 visa
| English level | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Competent | 47 | 48 | 51 | 54 | 0 |
| Proficient | 58 | 59 | 69 | 76 | 10 |
| Superior | 69 | 70 | 85 | 88 | 20 |
These apply to PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, and every skill must meet the score in one test.
Other key 491 points
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| Age 18 to 24 | 25 |
| Age 25 to 32 | 30 |
| Age 33 to 39 | 25 |
| Age 40 to 44 | 15 |
| State or territory nomination, or eligible family sponsorship | 15 |
| English: Competent / Proficient / Superior | 0 / 10 / 20 |
Qualifications, skilled work experience, Australian study and other factors add more points. You must be under 45 when invited.
Worked example
A 28-year-old with a bachelor's degree and state nomination:
| Competent English | Proficient English | Superior English | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age (28) | 30 | 30 | 30 |
| Bachelor's degree | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Nomination | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| English | 0 | 10 | 20 |
| Total | 60 | 70 | 80 |
With Competent English, this applicant is below the 65 pass mark. With Proficient, they pass. With Superior, they become far more competitive. This is a simplified example: your own points depend on your full profile.
Why English is the best points lever
Age, qualifications and work experience are mostly fixed by the time you apply. English is the one factor you can still raise in a few weeks. Moving from Competent to Proficient usually means lifting Speaking by about 22 points and Writing by about 18. See how in our Superior English plan and PTE score chart.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum PTE score for a 491 visa?
Competent English: Listening 47, Reading 48, Writing 51 and Speaking 54 in PTE Academic.
How many points does PTE give for a 491 visa?
0 for Competent, 10 for Proficient and 20 for Superior English.
Is 65 points enough for a 491 invitation?
65 is the minimum to apply, but invitations depend on your occupation and state. Competitive occupations often need more.
Need those 10 or 20 points? Our one-on-one plans come with 6 months of Score Guarantee support. See courses and prices or send us your scores on WhatsApp.