SkillSelect Expression of Interest

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Before applying for a skilled visa, individuals must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the relevant immigration system. This is a required step for the following visa categories:

  • Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

  • Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

If an applicant does not meet the eligibility criteria for a skilled visa, they can explore alternative visa pathways based on their circumstances.

What do you need for your EOI?

EOI Processing for Independent and Family-Sponsored Applicants

  • The Department of Home Affairs reviews EOIs for Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and Family-Sponsored (subclass 491) visas on a regular basis, currently every two weeks.

  • Invitations are issued to applicants with the highest points score based on factors such as:

    • Work experience

    • English language proficiency

    • Educational qualifications

  • Each occupational group is subject to a quota, known as an occupational ceiling. Once this limit is reached, no further invitations are issued for that occupation until the next cycle.

EOI Processing for State-Nominated Applicants

  • Applicants seeking nomination from a state or territory government must first submit an EOI.

  • Once the state or territory approves the nomination, an invitation to apply for a skilled visa is usually issued immediately through SkillSelect.

  • While occupational ceilings do not apply to state-nominated applicants, each state or territory may have internal quotas for specific occupations.

  • A minimum score of 65 points (as of July 1, 2023) is required for Skilled Points Tested visas.

Invitations to Apply for an Australian Skilled Visa

Invitations to apply for a skilled visa are issued to selected candidates who have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) and meet or exceed the required points threshold. Only applicants in eligible occupations with competitive scores receive invitations.

How Points Are Awarded?

Points are allocated based on key eligibility factors, including:

  • Age – Applicants within certain age brackets receive higher points.

  • Work Experience – Points are awarded for skilled employment in Australia and overseas.

  • Educational Qualifications – Higher degrees or Australian-recognized qualifications earn additional points.

  • English Language Proficiency – Superior or proficient English scores contribute to a higher ranking.

  • State or Territory Nomination – Additional points are granted for nomination under Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas.

  • Family Sponsorship – Applicants for the Subclass 491 visa can receive extra points if sponsored by an eligible family member.

Frequently

Asked       

Questions

  • An Expression of Interest (EOI) is an online submission that indicates a candidate's interest in applying for an Australian skilled visa. It is not a visa application but a way for the Department of Home Affairs to assess eligibility before issuing an invitation to apply (ITA) for a visa.

  • EOIs must be submitted online through SkillSelect, the Australian Government’s immigration system. Applicants need to provide details about their skills, qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency.

  • Applicants must score at least 65 points under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points system to be eligible. However, achieving a higher score increases the chances of receiving an invitation.

  • An EOI is valid for two years from the date of submission. If an applicant does not receive an invitation to apply (ITA) within this period, they must submit a new EOI.

  • Once invited, applicants have 60 days to submit a complete visa application, including supporting documents such as skills assessment, English test results, work experience records, and proof of qualifications.

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