The Expression of Interest (EOI) Process
For points-tested skilled visas, you don't apply directly — you first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. If your profile is competitive, you receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Quick answer
An EOI is a free, non-binding submission in SkillSelect stating your occupation, points score and visa preferences. The Department issues invitations in periodic rounds to the highest-ranking candidates, who then have 60 days to lodge a complete visa application.
What do you need before submitting an EOI?
An EOI brings together everything you've prepared. You should have these in place first so the points you claim can be verified at the application stage — claiming points you can't evidence later is a common cause of refusal.
- A positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation
- A valid English test result meeting at least Competent English
- Evidence of your work experience and qualifications
- An accurate, honestly self-assessed points score
How is your points score calculated?
The same points test applies to subclasses 189, 190 and 491. The absolute minimum to submit an EOI is 65 points, but in practice that is rarely enough to be invited. The main categories are:
- Age — 30 points for 25–32, 25 points for 18–24 or 33–39, 15 points for 40–44, and ineligible at 45+
- English — 20 points for Superior, 10 for Proficient, 0 for Competent
- Skilled work experience — up to 15 points overseas and up to 20 points for Australian experience, capped at 20 combined
- Qualifications — points for recognised diplomas, degrees and doctorates
- Nomination — an extra 5 points for state nomination (190) or 15 points for regional nomination (491)
What score do you actually need to be invited?
Meeting 65 points makes you eligible, but invitations go to the highest-ranked candidates first, so the effective threshold is much higher. In 2025–26, competitive scores for the independent subclass 189 typically sit in the 80–95+ range, depending on your occupation.
State-nominated 190 and regional 491 visas often have lower effective thresholds because of the extra 5 or 15 nomination points and demand-driven state selection. This is why many candidates with mid-range scores focus on state and regional pathways rather than the 189.
How do invitation rounds work?
The Department of Home Affairs issues invitations in periodic rounds. Within each occupation, candidates are ranked first by points score, and then by the date and time they reached that score — so if two people are tied on points, the one who reached that score earlier is invited first.
Because invitations are competitive and demand-driven, a higher points total dramatically improves your chances and shortens your wait. Improving your English or adding a skilled-partner claim are the fastest ways most people lift their ranking.
What happens after you're invited?
Once invited, you have 60 days to lodge a complete visa application with all supporting documentation, including police and health checks. If you let the invitation lapse, your EOI returns to the pool but you lose that round and must wait to be invited again.
It's wise to have your documents substantially ready before the invitation arrives, because 60 days passes quickly when you're gathering overseas police certificates and medicals.
Sources & further reading
Figures are indicative and were last reviewed on 22 May 2026. Always confirm current fees and requirements with the relevant official authority before acting.
Frequently asked questions
How long is an EOI valid?
An Expression of Interest remains in SkillSelect for two years from the date of submission. If you are not invited within that period, you need to submit a new EOI to stay in the pool.
Does submitting an EOI guarantee a visa?
No. An EOI is a free, non-binding submission — it is not a visa application and does not guarantee an invitation. Only candidates who are invited can lodge a visa application.
Is 65 points enough to get invited?
Rarely. 65 points is the minimum to enter the pool, but invitations go to the highest scorers first. For the 189 visa, competitive scores are usually 80+, though state-nominated and regional pathways can be achievable with lower scores.
Can I update my EOI after submitting it?
Yes. You can update your EOI as your circumstances change — for example, after a higher English result or a new skills assessment. Be aware that increasing your points updates the date you reached your new score, which affects your ranking.
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