Why Your EOI Matters More Than You Think
If you’re planning to apply for an Australian skilled visa, your Expression of Interest (EOI) can make or break your migration journey. A simple mistake, such as overclaiming points or misunderstanding state nomination requirements, can lead to a wasted invitation, a visa refusal, or even the loss of thousands of dollars in application fees.
Unfortunately, we are seeing this regularly as the visa process becomes more challenging and expensive.
Below are some considerations when preparing your EOI for a skilled visa.
Keep Your EOI Updated
Incorrect points claims or misunderstanding nomination requirements can lead to refusals, lost invitations, and thousands in wasted fees.
Your EOI should be reviewed and updated whenever your circumstances change.
This may include:
- Changing employers
- Completing additional work experience
- Improving your English language score
- Obtaining a new qualification
- Adding a skilled partner
- Receiving a new skills assessment
Importantly, updating your EOI without changing your points score generally does not affect your queue position for invitation purposes.
Learn more about skilled visas at our UK events this September
State Nomination Is About More Than Points
For state nominated visas, such as the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491), invitations are not based solely on points or queue position.
Each state and territory sets its own nomination priorities and selection criteria. Factors that may improve your chances of nomination include:
- Occupations currently in demand within the state
- Superior English language results
- Relevant skilled employment
- Employment offers within the state
- A skilled partner
- Previous study or work experience in the nominating state
State nomination is extremely competitive. Getting your EOI correct and reviewing state criteria is crucial for skilled visa success.
Having a high points score does not automatically guarantee a state invitation.
Understand EOI Validity Periods
An EOI remains valid for two years from the date it is lodged.
Before submitting an EOI, you should generally obtain:
- A positive skills assessment
- The required English language test results
Both are essential for accurately calculating your points score and determining your eligibility.
Keep in mind that:
- English language test results are generally valid for up to three years for migration purposes.
- Skills assessments are typically valid for two or three years, depending on the assessing authority and occupation.
Your Points May Change Automatically
The SkillSelect system automatically updates certain factors over time.
For example, your EOI may gain or lose points when you:
- Reach a milestone age bracket
- Accumulate additional years of skilled employment
This is why it’s important to keep your employment details current. If you change employers and fail to update your EOI, your points score may not accurately reflect your circumstances.
Accuracy Matters
Don’t miss your chance to live in Australia due to an EOI mistake
It can be tempting to maximise your points score, but every claim made in your EOI must be supported by evidence when you receive an invitation.
A seemingly small error can result in:
- A lost invitation
- Refusal of your visa application
- Significant delays
- Loss of government application fees
If you’re unsure whether your EOI is accurate or competitive, obtaining professional advice before lodging can save considerable time, money and stress later in the process.
Considering a move to Australia? Visa Go can help assess your eligibility, prepare a compliant EOI and guide you through the skilled migration process from start to finish.
