Top tips on how to prepare a precise Expression Of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
To get skilled migration visas, Expression of Interest (EOI) is a crucial part to complete, because only the best candidates will receive invitation to lodge their PR Applications.
The following types of application can only be lodged through SkillSelect:
- Skilled (Points Tested) Visas
- Skilled Independent Subclass 189 Visas
- Skilled Nominated Subclass 190 Visas
- Skilled Regional (Provisional) Subclass 489 Visas
- Business Skills Visas
- Business Talent Subclass 132 Visas
- Business Innovation & Investment Subclass 188 Visas
Some employer sponsored visas can apply for via SkillSelect, however this is optional, and it is still possible to apply directly rather than through SkillSelect:
- Employer Nomination Scheme – ENS
- Regional Skilled Migration Scheme – RSMS
- 457 Temporary Work (Skilled)
SkillSelect for Skilled Points Tested Visas
To lodge an EOI, you must have completed your skills assessment and have evidence of your English language ability.
You also may wish to obtain a nomination from a state or territory government prior to lodging an EOI as this will improve your chances of getting an invitation.
EOI process for Independent and Family Sponsored Applicants
For Independent and Family Sponsored Applicants, the Department of Immigration regularly reviews the EOIs which have been lodged. They issue the best candidates with an invitation to make an application for skilled points tested migration. This currently occurs every two weeks.
Quotas are set for each occupational group (this is referred to as an “occupational ceiling“). The people with the best points score will be issued with an invitation. People with a higher point score due to having more work experience, better English scores and higher qualifications will have the best chance of getting an invitation.
EOI process for State Nominated Applicants
For the candidates who are looking at being nominated by a state or territory government, you will need to first lodge your EOI. Once the state or territory government completes your nomination, you would usually receive an invitation immediately from SkillSelect.
You must have a passing score to receive an invitation (currently 65 points (as of 1 July 2018) for Skilled Points Tested applicants.
Whilst occupational ceilings do not apply to state nominated applicants, states and territories may have internal quotas for each occupation.
Post EOI Invitation Time Limit to Apply for PR
Once you receive an invitation, you will need to make your visa application within 60 days.
If you are unable to apply within this time, your invitation lapses. If you are invited once, there is no guarantee that you will be re-invited later, and in any case, you can only be issued with a maximum of 2 invitations before your application is removed from the EOI system.
Thereofore, it is highly recommended that you should lodge your PR application prior to the last date so that you can avoid any kind of consequences that may occur due to time limitation.
Note: This blog was originally published in January 2019 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
