What Is Schedule 6D and Why Does It Matter?

Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations 1994 sets out the points available to a skilled visa applicant based on their partner's qualifications and English language ability. These points are often misunderstood or overlooked, yet they can make a material difference to your position in a SkillSelect invitation round.

For Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visa applicants, every additional point matters. With invitation cutoffs remaining highly competitive, understanding how partner points are calculated is a practical and important step in EOI planning.

The Two Partner Points Categories

Schedule 6D awards points across two distinct categories. Applicants should assess eligibility for both before lodging an Expression of Interest.

CategoryCriteriaPointsPartner SkillsPartner holds a suitable skills assessment and is under 45 years of age10Partner EnglishPartner achieves competent English (e.g. IELTS 6 in each band)5

It is important to note that the 10-point partner skills score requires a valid skills assessment from an approved assessing authority for a nominated occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or other applicable list. The assessment must be current at the time of invitation and again at the time of visa application.

Competent English: The CSIT and SSIT Thresholds

For points-tested visas, English proficiency is assessed against defined score thresholds. The Competent English Score for Individual Tests (CSIT) and the Superior English Score for Individual Tests (SSIT) are the benchmarks used by the Department of Home Affairs.

These thresholds apply to the principal applicant's own English points, but the same CSIT standard applies when assessing whether a partner qualifies for the 5-point partner English score under Schedule 6D.

From 1 July 2025, both the CSIT and SSIT thresholds are scheduled to increase across the recognised English language tests. This means applicants and their partners who are relying on existing test scores should carefully review whether those scores will continue to meet the new thresholds after that date.

Interaction with Labour Market Testing

Where a partner holds a valid skills assessment and the nominated occupation is subject to Labour Market Testing (LMT) requirements, this does not affect the partner's eligibility for Schedule 6D points. The partner points calculation under Schedule 6D is a standalone assessment and is not contingent on LMT compliance. LMT is a requirement for employer-sponsored visa pathways, not for the points test itself.

However, applicants considering a dual strategy, such as combining a points-tested visa pathway with an employer-sponsored pathway for the partner, should obtain separate advice on how LMT obligations interact with each visa stream.

Common Errors in EOI Preparation

Several recurring issues arise when applicants self-assess partner points. The most common errors include the following.

1. Claiming partner skills points without a current, valid skills assessment from an approved authority.
2. Using a skills assessment for an occupation not on the relevant skills list for the visa subclass being applied for.
3. Relying on an English test result that does not meet the CSIT threshold in all test components.
4. Failing to verify that the partner is under 45 years of age at the time of invitation, not only at EOI lodgment.
5. Overlooking that a partner who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident does not require an English test but may still require a skills assessment for the 10-point score.

Key Takeaways

• Schedule 6D can contribute up to 15 additional points to your EOI through partner English and skills criteria.
• The partner's skills assessment must be for an occupation on the applicable skills list and must be valid at both invitation and application stage.
• CSIT and SSIT thresholds increase from 1 July 2025. Review your partner's English test scores now.
• Partner points and Labour Market Testing operate independently of each other in the points-tested context.
• Errors in self-assessed EOIs can result in visa refusal or cancellation. Obtain professional advice before lodging.

The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.

Speak with a Riverwood Migration Lawyer

For skilled migration and skills assessment matters, we recommend speaking with Scott Gan, our lawyer specialising in points-tested visas and occupation skills assessments. Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances.

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