What is Australian SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) System?

The SkillSelect system acts as a bridge between skilled migrants and potential opportunities in Australia. It streamlines the process for both individuals and the government, ensuring a good fit for the workforce. Through SkillSelect, prospective migrants can showcase their qualifications, skills, and work experience, initiating the journey towards Australian residency—a pathway to permanently live and work in the country.

Lodging an Expression of Interest is the first crucial step in your Australian migration journey. It not only demonstrates your desire to move but also sets the foundation for a successful skilled visa application.

But do you truly understand its significance?

Get ready to gain all insight from this blog and strengthen your Expression of Interest to stand out from the rest.

What is SkillSelect EOI?

SkillSelect EOI (Expression of Interest) is an online system used by the Australian government to manage and select skilled individuals who are interested in migrating to Australia. It is part of the Australian immigration process and is specifically designed for skilled migration point-tested visas, including:

• Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

In simple words, you need to make an Expression of Interest to be nominated by the Australian state or territory government for a subclass 189, 190 and 491 visa.

Based on the information provided on EOI, applicants are assigned points, which are scored according to factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience and qualifications. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for skilled visas through regular invitation rounds.

Note: Submitting an EOI does not automatically grant a bridging visa. Applicants will not be considered for a bridging visa unless they have submitted a legitimate application for a skilled visa. This ensures that the process remains meaningful and aligned with immigration regulations.

How does the SkillSelect EOI system work?

The SkillSelect EOI system operates in several steps:

1. Submission of Expression of Interest (EOI): Skilled workers who wish to migrate to Australia need to submit an EOI through the SkillSelect online portal. The EOI includes information about the individual’s skills, credentials, professional background, English language proficiency and other relevant details.
2. Points Calculation: Based on the information provided in the EOI, the SkillSelect system calculates an individual’s points score. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, employment history, qualifications and other criteria specified by the Australian government.
3. Ranking and Invitation: The SkillSelect system ranks the submitted EOIs based on their points scores. Periodically, the Australian government conducts invitation rounds, inviting individuals with the highest points scores to apply for a visa. The number of invitations issued depends on the available visa quota and the occupation demand.
4. Invitation to Apply (ITA): Applicants who receive an invitation to apply can proceed with their visa application. They have a specified period, usually 60 days, to submit a complete visa application, including supporting documents and payment of the application fee.
5. Visa Application Process: Once applicants submit their visa applications, the Department of Home Affairs assesses them. This assessment includes verifying the information provided in the EOI and conducting additional checks, such as health and character requirements.

Also read: English Language Requirement for Skilled Migration Visas

Can EOI get Rejected?

Yes, an Expression of Interest (EOI) submitted through the SkillSelect system can be rejected, or you will not be invited to apply for a skilled visa. This could happen if you do not meet the eligibility criteria for the specific skilled migration visa subclass you are applying for.

Additionally, if the demand for skilled migrants in a particular occupation or region is low, EOIs with lower points scores may not receive invitations to apply for visas during the regular invitation rounds, effectively resulting in rejection.

How to Submit EOI to Australia?

Before anything else, it is crucial to understand that sending an EOI does not mean you will automatically receive an invitation to apply for a visa. 

Here’s a breakdown of how to submit an EOI to Australia through SkillSelect:

Before you begin:

1. Check your occupation: Ensure your occupation is on the Australian Skilled Occupation List (SOL) relevant to your desired visa.
2. Meet points requirement: Your eligibility is assessed through the Australian Skilled Immigration points requirement. To be competitive, aim for a score of at least 65 points. Points are granted based on factors like age, work experience, education qualification, English language proficiency and other relevant factors.
3. SkillSelect account: Create an account on the SkillSelect on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
4. Complete the EOI Form: Fill out the EOI form, providing accurate and detailed information about your skills assessment, qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency and other relevant details as required.
5. Submit Your EOI: Once you have filled out the EOI form, review all the information carefully to ensure accuracy and submit via skillselect.
6. Update your EOI regularly: If your circumstances change, such as gaining additional certification or work experience, update your EOI accordingly to reflect the most accurate information.
7. Wait for Invitation: If your EOI receives a sufficiently high points score and meets the criteria for invitation, you may be invited to apply for a skilled migration visa during one of the regular invitation rounds conducted by the Australian government.

How many times can you apply for EOI?

While there is no limit on how many EOIs you can submit, you can receive a maximum of two invitations against one EOI. You can access and update your Expression of Interest (EOI) at any time through SkillSelect. 

However, if you fail to accept an invitation within 60 days, your EOI will be removed from SkillSelect, or you will need to wait for another invitation. Remember that there is no guarantee of receiving a second invitation.

What are the benefits of the EOI system in the application process?

The SkillSelect EOI system offers several advantages for both applicants and the Australian government:

1. Efficiency: SkillSelect streamlines the visa application process, making it more efficient for both applicants and immigration authorities.
2. Targeted Selection: By ranking EOIs based on points, the system facilitates the selection of candidates with skills that align with Australia’s economic and labour market needs.
3. Flexibility: Applicants have the flexibility to update their EOIs with new information, such as improved English proficiency or additional work experience, to enhance their chances of receiving an ITA.
4. Transparent Process: The online nature of SkillSelect ensures transparency in the visa application process, allowing applicants to track the progress of their EOIs and understand their standing in the system.

Conclusion

The SkillSelect Expression of Interest system has unlocked avenues for skilled migrants to tap into opportunities in Australia. Crafting a compelling EOI that showcases your qualifications and experience enhances your prospects of securing an invitation to apply for a visa.

Remember, a strong EOI is just the first step. The Australian immigration process can be intricate, and seeking expert guidance can significantly ease the journey. Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin? Contact us today for a free consultation and personalised guidance on your Australian migration journey.