An Expression of Interest (EOI) is an essential step for skilled migrants who want to live and work in Australia. It is a formal submission to the Department of Home Affairs, indicating the eligibility to apply for a skilled migration visa. The EOI is the first step in the visa application process, and it is an opportunity for skilled workers to showcase their skills and qualifications to the Australian government.
In this blog, we will discuss the EOI process in detail, including what it is, how to submit it, and what happens after submission. We will also cover the different types of visas that can be applied for using an EOI and provide tips on how to make the most out of your submission.
What is an Expression of Interest (EOI)?
An Expression of Interest (EOI) is a formal submission to the Australian government, indicating the intent to apply for a skilled migration visa. It provides detailed information about the applicant's skills, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant factors that are considered for the visa application.
Submitting an EOI does not guarantee a visa, but it is a necessary step in the application process. The EOI is used by the Australian government to assess the applicant's suitability for a skilled migration visa and determine if they meet the eligibility criteria.
There are several types of visas that can be applied for using an Expression of Interest (EOI). These include the Skilled Independent Subclass 189 Visa, Skilled Nominated Subclass 190 Visa, Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Subclass 491 Visa, Business Talent Subclass 132 Visa, and Business Innovation & Investment Subclass 188 Visa. Each visa has its own set of eligibility criteria, and candidates must score a minimum number of points on the Department of Home Affairs' points test to be eligible. By submitting an EOI, candidates can demonstrate their interest in skilled migration to Australia and increase their chances of being invited to apply for a skilled visa.
How to submit an Expression of Interest?
The EOI is submitted online through SkillSelect, which is an online system used by the Australian government to manage the skilled migration program. SkillSelect is a platform where skilled migrants can submit their EOI, and employers and state or territory governments can search for skilled workers to sponsor.
To submit an EOI, the applicant needs to create a SkillSelect account and provide accurate and up-to-date information about their qualifications, work experience, and other relevant factors. The applicant also needs to indicate the type of visa they are interested in and the states or territories they prefer to work and live in.
Once the EOI is submitted, it is assessed based on the points system used by the Australian government. The points system evaluates various factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and other relevant criteria. The applicant needs to score a minimum number of points to be considered for a skilled migration visa.
Documents required to submit an EOI
Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) for Australian immigration is done exclusively online, using a system called SkillSelect.
The EOI form is designed to gather information about your skills and qualifications and calculate your ability to meet the points test for certain visas. In addition, if you have specified your interest in a sponsored skilled visa for a particular area, the EOI can be accessed by employers and state & territory government agencies.
The information submitted in the EOI includes:
Personal information – such as given names, surnames, date of birth, countries of citizenship and/or residence, etc.
The nominated occupation.
Work experience and employment history.
English language proficiency.
Any information pertaining to a state or territory nomination, which shows whether you are prepared to live and work in regional Australia.
There is no requirement to provide supporting documents when submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) for Australian immigration. All the information provided in the EOI form is taken at face value, and the applicant need not submit any additional documents.
Once you have submitted your EOI, you will be able to access it and take certain actions. For instance, if your circumstances change, you can update the information and details provided in the EOI. Additionally, if you need to put your plans on hold for any reason, you can suspend the EOI for a period of time.
What happens after submitting an Expression of Interest?
After submitting an EOI, the applicant's information is added to the SkillSelect database and available for employers and state or territory governments to view. If an employer or government agency is interested in the applicant's profile, they may contact the applicant to discuss sponsorship options.
If the applicant's EOI is successful, they will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the Department of Home Affairs. The ITA is a formal invitation to apply for a skilled migration visa and specifies the visa subclass and other relevant information.
The ITA is valid for a specific period, and the applicant needs to submit the visa application within that time frame. Once the visa application is submitted, it is assessed by the Australian government, and the applicant may be required to provide additional documentation or attend an interview.
If the visa application is successful, the applicant will be granted a visa to live and work in Australia. The visa may be granted on a provisional or permanent basis, depending on the visa subclass and other relevant factors.
How SkillSelect applies to skilled points tested visas?
In order to apply for Skilled Points Tested Visas via SkillSelect, you are required to fulfil certain criteria. This includes having undergone a skills assessment and providing proof of your proficiency in the English language while submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI).
It is also advisable to consider obtaining a nomination from a state or territory government prior to submitting your EOI, as this can significantly increase the likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply.
Processing of EOIs – Independent and family-sponsored applicants
The Department of Immigration conducts a periodic assessment of the Expressions of Interest (EOIs) submitted by both independent and family-sponsored applicants. Based on this evaluation, the department selects the most suitable candidates and invites them to apply for skilled points tested migration. This process takes place every two weeks.
The Department sets quotas for each occupational group, also known as "occupational ceilings". Those who have the highest point score are selected for an invitation. Applicants with more work experience, better English language proficiency, and higher qualifications are more likely to receive an invitation, as they score higher points.
What is the time limit to apply after being invited?
Upon receiving an invitation, it is essential to lodge your visa application within 60 days. Failure to do so will result in your invitation being cancelled. Additionally, being issued an invitation once does not guarantee future invitations, and you can only receive a maximum of two invitations before your application is removed from the EOI system.
Therefore, it is crucial to be well-prepared and ready to seize the opportunity when it presents itself. For a comprehensive assessment of your situation or assistance with your Expression of Interest and visa application, feel free to contact us.
Frequently asked question
What is an Expression of Interest?
Expression of Interest (EOI) is a preliminary application that expresses an individual's interest in migrating to a particular country or participating in a particular program.
What is an invitation?
An invitation is a formal request or offer to participate in a program or process, typically in response to an Expression of Interest.
How long does it take to get an invitation?
The time it takes to receive an invitation after submitting an Expression of Interest can vary depending on the program and the individual's qualifications. It can range from a few weeks to several months.
What is a point test?
The point test is a system used to assess an individual's eligibility for migration or other programs based on various criteria, such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and more.
What is a nomination?
Nomination is the process of being selected or chosen for a particular program or opportunity.
what is SkillSelect and how does it work?
SkillSelect is an online system used by the Australian government to manage applications for skilled migration to Australia. It works by allowing individuals to submit an Expression of Interest, and then the government can invite them to apply for specific visas based on their qualifications and skills.
Can I submit EOI without clearing an English language test or skill assessment?
No, most programs require individuals to clear an English language test and skill assessment before submitting an Expression of Interest.
