Lodge EOI
Online form declaring occupation, points claimed, preferences for visa subclasses and states.
Expression of Interest · 189 · 190 · 491
SkillSelect is the gate to skilled migration.
Every 189, 190, and 491 application starts with a SkillSelect EOI. Here is how the system works, what points are claimed, and how invitations are issued. Our skilled team Gurjeev Bhalla and Sourabh Aggarwal prepares EOIs.
How SkillSelect works
Four stages.
SkillSelect is a four-stage process from lodgement to invitation.
Sit in the pool
EOI sits in the pool with all other applicants. Updates can be made. Validity 2 years.
State/territory can nominate
For 190 and 491, states and territories can nominate EOIs that match their criteria.
Department issues invitation
Department issues invitations in rounds, ranked by points then date. See ranking guide.
Key EOI fields
What to declare carefully.
EOI fields drive invitation. Claim accurately and strategically.
Nominated occupation (ANZSCO)Specific ANZSCO code for your occupation. Must match skills assessment. Wrong code causes refusal post-invitation.
Points claimedAge, English, qualifications, work experience, partner skills, Australian study, regional study. Each requires evidence at visa stage.
Visa subclass selection189, 190 (specify states), 491 (specify states). Multiple selections broaden options.
Work experience breakdownOnshore vs offshore years. Exact dates. Must align with skills assessment and reference letters.
Common EOI mistakes
Three patterns that cause problems later.
EOI problems usually surface at visa lodgement. Fix them at EOI stage.
Overclaimed points
Points claimed without evidence to back them at visa stage. Causes visa refusal.
Wrong occupation code
ANZSCO code not matching actual duties or skills assessment code. Causes refusal.
Stale EOI
EOI unchanged for a year while circumstances improved. Missing points. Out-of-date information.
EOIs can be updated without losing position.
Updating your EOI does not reset your date of effect unless points decrease. Fresh English test result, partner skills assessment, change of occupation code: update the EOI to reflect current position. Ranking improves, date of effect generally unchanged.
Common questions
The questions we hear most.
For EOI preparation, book with Gurjeev Bhalla.
Does EOI lodgement require a skills assessment?
Yes. EOI requires positive skills assessment reference. Lodging without is non-compliant.
How long does EOI sit before invitation?
Depends on points and occupation. High points invited quickly. Moderate points may wait months. See EOI ranking.
Can I have multiple EOIs?
Yes, typically one per applicant but covering multiple visa subclasses. Multiple EOIs for same person cause confusion.
What happens after I am invited?
60 days to lodge the actual visa application. Evidence must back the EOI claims. See points guide.
Some information on this page has been sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and has been interpreted and approved by Principal Migration Agent Sourabh Aggarwal (MARN 1462159). Last reviewed: May 2026.