Canberra Matrix Calculator 2025 – Check Your Eligibility for ACT Nomination
Overview
The Canberra Matrix Calculator is a unique points-based system used by the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government to assess eligibility for ACT nomination under the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491).
If you wish to live and work in Canberra (the capital city of Australia), you must first complete the Canberra Matrix to determine your eligibility for ACT state nomination.
This system rewards candidates based on their contribution and commitment to the ACT economy, work experience, English proficiency, qualifications, and other factors.
At World Overseas Services, we help you calculate your Canberra Matrix score, submit your Expression of Interest (EOI), and apply for ACT nomination smoothly and successfully.
What is the Canberra Matrix?
The Canberra Matrix is a merit-based assessment tool that ranks potential migrants who wish to apply for ACT nomination.
It allocates points based on various factors including:
Length of ACT residence
English language proficiency
Occupation demand
Work experience
Education qualifications
Partner skills
Job offer in ACT
Once you submit the Matrix, you are ranked against other applicants, and invitations are issued periodically through ACT invitation rounds.
Visa Types Under the Canberra Matrix
Visa Type | Description | Pathway |
---|---|---|
Subclass 190 Visa | Skilled Nominated (Permanent Residency) | For applicants living and working in Canberra |
Subclass 491 Visa | Skilled Regional (Provisional) | For applicants living and working in regional areas of ACT (Pathway to PR after 3 years) |
How the Canberra Matrix Calculator Works
The Canberra Matrix Calculator awards points based on specific criteria. You must reach the minimum required points to be invited for ACT state nomination.
Here’s how the Matrix points system is structured:
1. Canberra Residence
Criteria | Points |
---|---|
Living in Canberra for 4+ years | 25 |
Living in Canberra for 2–3 years | 20 |
Living in Canberra for 1–2 years | 15 |
Living in Canberra for less than 1 year | 5 |
2. English Language Proficiency
English Level | Points |
---|---|
Superior (IELTS 8 / PTE 79) | 20 |
Proficient (IELTS 7 / PTE 65) | 15 |
Competent (IELTS 6 / PTE 50) | 0 |
3. Occupation Demand
Status on ACT Occupation List | Points |
---|---|
In-demand occupation | 20 |
Moderately demanded | 10 |
Low demand | 5 |
4. Employment in Canberra
Employment Type | Points |
---|---|
Working in skilled occupation (20+ hrs/week) | 20 |
Working in any occupation (20+ hrs/week) | 10 |
Job offer from ACT employer | 5 |
5. Education Qualification
Qualification | Points |
---|---|
Doctorate / Master’s Degree | 20 |
Bachelor’s Degree | 15 |
Diploma or Trade Qualification | 10 |
6. Study in Canberra
Duration of Study | Points |
---|---|
Completed a Master’s/PhD in Canberra | 20 |
Completed a Bachelor’s degree in Canberra | 15 |
Completed a Diploma/Trade course in Canberra | 10 |
7. Partner Skills
Partner Criteria | Points |
---|---|
Partner with ACT employment | 10 |
Partner with English and skills assessment | 5 |
Single applicant | 10 |
8. Financial Capacity
Assets / Settlement Funds | Points |
---|---|
Above AUD 80,000 | 10 |
AUD 60,000 – 80,000 | 5 |
Below AUD 60,000 | 0 |
9. Close Family or Professional Ties in ACT
Criteria | Points |
---|---|
Family member living in Canberra | 5 |
Professional networks in ACT | 5 |
Steps to Apply for ACT Nomination via Canberra Matrix
Step 1: Check Your Occupation
Ensure your occupation is listed on the ACT Critical Skills List.
Step 2: Calculate Your Matrix Points
Use the Canberra Matrix Calculator to estimate your eligibility score.
Step 3: Submit Canberra Matrix
Complete and submit your Canberra Matrix online through the ACT Government portal.
Step 4: Receive an Invitation
If your score is competitive, you’ll receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for ACT nomination.
Step 5: Apply for State Nomination
Submit the nomination application with all supporting documents within 14 days of receiving your invitation.
Step 6: Apply for Your Visa
Once nominated, lodge your Subclass 190 or 491 visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.