Australia’s PR points system is the first step toward securing permanent residency through skilled migration visas such as subclasses 189, 190, and 491. Achieving a competitive points score allows applicants to receive an invitation to apply for PR, which is a prerequisite for citizenship. Once granted PR, individuals must typically live in Australia for four years, including one year as a permanent resident, before applying for citizenship. Points are not directly linked to citizenship applications, but they enable the pathway by determining eligibility for permanent residency.