EOI Checklist for Skilled Migration Visa (189, 190 & 491)
- 6 hours ago
- 4 min read
Updated : 20 February 2026
Planning to apply for permanent residency through Australia’s skilled migration program?
If you are considering Subclass 189, 190 or 491, your Expression of Interest (EOI) is the first formal step. Before lodging, you must ensure your documents, occupation and points claims are accurate and supported.
This guide outlines what you need to prepare before submitting your EOI through SkillSelect.
You must have a valid skills assessment before lodging an EOI for Subclass 189, 190 or 491.
What Is an EOI?
An Expression of Interest (EOI) is an online submission through SkillSelect, managed by the Department of Home Affairs.
It is not a visa application.
Your EOI:
Nominates your occupation
Declares your points score
Selects visa subclasses (189, 190, 491)
Records your English test results
Lists your employment and education history
If your EOI is competitive, you may receive an invitation to apply for a visa.
1. Identity Documents
Prepare clear and consistent identity documents:
Valid passport
Birth certificate or national ID
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Name change certificate (if applicable)
Details across all documents must match your EOI exactly.
2. English Language Test
You must complete an approved English test to claim points.
Accepted tests include:
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
Test of English as a Foreign Language iBT (TOEFL iBT)
Occupational English Test (OET)
Cambridge C1 Advanced
Key points:
Test results are generally valid for 3 years
Higher scores increase your migration points
You must meet at least the competent English requirement
3. Skills Assessment (Mandatory)
You cannot submit a valid EOI without a positive skills assessment.
Your assessment must:
Be issued by the correct assessing authority
Match your nominated occupation
Be valid (usually 3 years)
Your occupation must align with the relevant ANZSCO classification and assessing body requirements.
Without a positive skills assessment, your EOI cannot proceed.
4. Work Experience Documents
If you claim skilled employment points, you must be able to support them.
Prepare:
Employer reference letters
Payslips
Tax records
Employment contracts
Superannuation evidence (if employed in Australia)
Your job duties must align with your nominated occupation — not just your job title.
5. Education Documents
Prepare:
Degree or diploma certificates
Academic transcripts
Professional registration (if required for your occupation)
Education level affects your overall points score.
6. Partner Documents (If Claiming Points)
You may receive additional points if your partner:
Is under 45
Has competent English
Holds a positive skills assessment in an eligible occupation
Single applicants may also receive additional points.
Incorrect partner claims can affect your visa outcome at application stage.
7. Points Test Overview
Points may be awarded for:
Age
English level
Skilled work experience
Education
Australian study
Regional study
Partner qualifications
NAATI language certification
While 65 points is the minimum eligibility threshold, competitive occupations often require higher scores in invitation rounds.
8. State Nomination (Subclass 190 & 491)
If applying under Subclass 190 or 491, you may seek nomination from an Australian state or territory.
States and territories include:
New South Wales
Victoria
Queensland
South Australia
Western Australia
Australian Capital Territory
Tasmania
Northern Territory
Subclass 190 → Permanent residency through state nomination
Subclass 491 → Regional provisional visa pathway to PR
State nomination adds additional points and involves separate eligibility criteria.
Important Notes Before Lodging Your EOI
EOI submission is free
You must be under 45 at time of invitation
All claims must be accurate
Supporting documents are required after invitation
An incorrect or unsupported claim can lead to refusal at visa stage.
Before You Submit Your EOI
Many applicants lodge an EOI without confirming whether their occupation, points claims or supporting documents are properly aligned.
Before submitting, it is important to ensure your information is accurate and supported by evidence.
RACC Migration Australia offers consultations to review your eligibility, occupation alignment and EOI details prior to submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit an EOI without documents?
You may lodge an EOI without uploading documents, but you must hold a valid skills assessment and accurate information. Documents will be required after invitation.
Is EOI approval guaranteed?
No. An EOI is a registration of interest only. You must receive an invitation before applying for a visa.
How long is an EOI valid?
An EOI generally remains valid in SkillSelect for up to two years unless withdrawn or updated.
Does state nomination guarantee PR?
No. Nomination increases your chances but does not guarantee invitation or visa approval.
Final Reminder
Prepare all documents carefully before lodging your EOI.
A properly structured EOI reduces risk, improves clarity, and ensures your points claims are defensible if invited.
If you are planning to apply under Subclass 189, 190 or 491, you may consider booking a consultation with RACC Migration Australia to review your eligibility and EOI strategy before submission.
Disclaimer This content is provided as general information only and does not constitute migration or legal advice. Migration regulations may change, and individual circumstances vary.
Considering Lodging Your Skilled Migration EOI?
An Expression of Interest is an important step in the skilled migration process. Accuracy and correct documentation are essential.
If you would like professional guidance regarding Subclass 189, 190 or 491, you may book a consultation with RACC Migration Australia to discuss your circumstances.
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