EOIs & Skills Assessments

 

If you’re planning to apply for a skilled visa in Australia, the process begins with two critical steps: submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) and obtaining a Skills Assessment. These steps determine whether you meet Australia’s skilled migration requirements and play a vital role in securing a Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visa.

I’ve helped many skilled workers successfully navigate the EOI and Skills Assessment process, ensuring they maximize their points and increase their chances of receiving an invitation.

What Is a Skills Assessment?

A Skills Assessment is an official evaluation of your qualifications and work experience to ensure they match Australian standards for your nominated occupation. Each occupation has a specific assessing authority that determines whether your skills are suitable.

Who Needs a Skills Assessment?

✅ Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) applicants.
✅ Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) applicants.
✅ Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) applicants.
✅ Employer-Sponsored Visa applicants (if required by the employer).

Common Skills Assessing Authorities:

• Engineers Australia – For engineers (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.).
• Australian Computer Society (ACS) – For IT professionals.
• VETASSESS – For general skilled occupations.
• Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) – For trade professionals (plumbers, electricians, etc.).
• CPA Australia/CAANZ/IPA – For accountants.

How to Apply for a Skills Assessment

1️⃣ Choose the Right Occupation:
Make sure your job matches an occupation listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.

2️⃣ Check the Assessing Authority Requirements:
Each assessing authority has different requirements for qualifications, work experience, and documentation.

3️⃣ Gather Your Documents:
✔ Academic qualifications (degree, diploma, or trade certificate).
✔ Employment reference letters.
✔ Payslips and tax records to verify experience.
✔ English proficiency results (if required).

4️⃣ Submit Your Application & Pay Fees:
The processing time varies depending on the authority (can take 8–12 weeks).

5️⃣ Receive Your Skills Assessment Outcome:
✔ Positive assessment: You can proceed with your visa application.
❌ Negative assessment: You may need to provide more evidence or appeal the decision.

What Is an Expression of Interest (EOI)?

An Expression of Interest (EOI) is a formal application submitted through SkillSelect, where you express your intention to apply for a Skilled Migration Visa. The Australian Government invites the highest-ranking candidates based on their points.

Who Needs an EOI?

✅ Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) applicants.
✅ Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) applicants.
✅ Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) applicants.

How to Submit an EOI

1️⃣ Create an Account on SkillSelect.
2️⃣ Enter Your Personal & Skills Details:
✔ Nominated occupation.
✔ Education and work experience.
✔ English test results (IELTS/PTE).
✔ Skills Assessment details.
✔ Partner’s skills (if applicable).

3️⃣ Claim Your Points & Rank Higher.
The Australian migration system is points-based, and EOIs with higher points get invited first.

How to Increase Your EOI Points & Get an Invitation Faster

✔ Improve Your English Test Score – Achieving superior English (IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79+) earns 20 points.
✔ Gain More Work Experience – Additional years of skilled work increase points.
✔ State Sponsorship (Subclass 190 & 491) – State nomination adds 5–15 points, improving your ranking.
✔ Partner Skills Points – If your partner is under 45, has competent English, and a positive skills assessment, you may get extra points.

What Happens After Lodging an EOI?

✔ Your EOI stays active for 2 years in SkillSelect.
✔ If you meet the points threshold and demand, you may receive an invitation to apply for a visa.
✔ If you do not receive an invitation, you may need to update your EOI or consider other visa options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Skills Assessments & EOIs

🚫 Choosing the wrong occupation – If your nominated occupation does not match your qualifications/work history, it will be rejected.
🚫 Incorrect points calculation – Claiming more points than you are eligible for may lead to visa refusal.
🚫 Providing incomplete documents – Missing paperwork delays the assessment process.
🚫 Failing to meet state nomination requirements – Some states require job offers or additional experience.

Need Help with Your EOI or Skills Assessment? Let’s Talk

Submitting an EOI and Skills Assessment correctly is the first step to securing an Australian skilled visa. If you need expert guidance, I can help assess your eligibility, prepare your documents, and maximize your points for a higher chance of receiving an invitation.

📅 Book a consultation today: Schedule an Appointment

Let’s make your skilled migration journey stress-free and successful.