An Expression of Interest (EOI) submitted through the SkillSelect Expression of Interest system is the mandatory first step for points-tested skilled migration to Australia. It serves as an official declaration of your qualifications, work experience, and migration score, allowing the Australian Government and state bodies to invite qualified applicants for visas like Subclass 189, 190, and 491.
What Is a SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI)?
To apply for points-tested skilled migration to Australia, applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Australian Government’s online SkillSelect system. An EOI is not a visa application; rather, it is an official declaration of your qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency, and total migration points score.
Submitting a valid EOI allows the Department of Home Affairs as well as Australian state and territory governments to review your profile and invite you to lodge a formal visa application.
A valid EOI is required to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for key General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas, including the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491). While the legislative minimum pass mark to lodge an EOI in SkillSelect is 65 points, competitive invitation rounds frequently favour higher total scores ranging between 70 and 95+ points depending on occupational demand.
How Do You Prepare and Lodge a SkillSelect Expression of Interest?
Before lodging an EOI in SkillSelect, candidates must complete specific pre-requisite assessments and satisfy core migration criteria.
1. Obtain a Positive Skills Assessment
You must obtain a successful skills assessment from the designated assessing authority for your nominated occupation before submitting your EOI. Skills assessments are generally valid for up to 3 years from the date of issue unless a shorter validity period is stated on the assessment.
2. Complete an Approved English Language Test
Applicants must demonstrate at least Competent English to be eligible for points-tested skilled migration. English test results (such as IELTS or PTE Academic) remain valid for 3 years for skilled migration purposes:
- Competent English: 0 points
- Proficient English: 10 points
- Superior English: 20 points
3. Calculate Your Migration Points Total
Your score is calculated automatically in SkillSelect based on key factors like age, skilled employment history, qualifications, and additional category boosters:
- Age: Maximum 30 points (applicants must be under 45 years old).
- Work Experience: Up to 20 points combined for overseas and Australian skilled employment.
- Qualifications: Up to 20 points for recognised Doctorate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Trade qualifications.
- State or Regional Nomination: 5 extra points for Subclass 190 or 15 extra points for Subclass 491.
What Are the Main Visa Options Selected in SkillSelect?
| Visa Category | Nomination Required? | Point Bonus | Main Features & Eligibility |
| Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) | No | 0 Points | Permanent residency visa allowing skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia without state nomination or employer sponsorship. |
| Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) | Yes (State/Territory) | +5 Points | Permanent residency visa requiring nomination by an Australian state or territory government. |
| Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) | Yes (State or Family) | +15 Points | 5-year provisional visa requiring sponsorship by an eligible family member or state/territory nomination to live and work in designated regional areas. |
Can You Update Your SkillSelect EOI After Submission?
Yes, you can update your EOI in SkillSelect at any time before receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Your EOI remains active in the SkillSelect system for up to 2 years from the date of submission.
Reasons to Update Your EOI Profile:
- Higher English Test Scores: Achieving Superior English adds 10 extra points.
- Additional Work Experience: Accruing extra years of post-qualification employment moves you into higher experience point brackets.
- Educational Qualifications: Completing a new degree, Australian Study Requirement, or Professional Year Program adds points.
- Partner Status Changes: Gaining partner skills assessment points or single applicant points adds up to 10 points.
- State/Territory Selection: Modifying your state nomination preferences for Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 visas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum score needed to submit an EOI in SkillSelect?
The legislative minimum score required to lodge an EOI is 65 points. However, actual invitation thresholds depend on occupational competition and state nomination criteria, often requiring 70 to 95+ points for competitive selection.
Do I need a job offer before lodging an EOI?
No. General Skilled Migration visas (Subclasses 189, 190, and 491) do not require an employer job offer to submit an EOI or receive an invitation.
How long is an Expression of Interest valid in SkillSelect?
An EOI remains valid for 2 years in the SkillSelect system. If you are not invited within 2 years, your EOI will expire automatically.
What happens after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA)?
Once an ITA is issued, your EOI details are locked and you have 60 calendar days to submit a complete visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.
How eduaid Can Help You Navigate Australian Migration
Navigating the SkillSelect Expression of Interest system requires strategic planning to maximise every available point. At eduaid, our experienced team of education and migration consultants offers comprehensive support, including Complete points evaluation, skill assessment assistance, state nomination strategies, and precise EOI lodging for Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas.
Contact eduaid today to evaluate your points score and build an effective migration strategy for Australia!