What is a SkillSelect expression of interest (EOI)?
Checked against official sources, October 2026
SkillSelect is the Australian Government’s online system where skilled workers submit an expression of interest (EOI) in being invited to apply for a skilled visa. You need to be invited to apply for the 189, 190 and 491 visas, and the EOI is how you enter that pool.
Who this is for
Health professionals planning a points-tested skilled visa to Australia.
What the official guidance says
- You need to be invited to apply for a skilled visa. Submitting an EOI with your work experience and qualifications tells Home Affairs you want to be invited.
- An EOI is used for the Skilled Independent (189), Skilled Nominated (190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (491) visas.
- You provide personal information in the EOI but do not upload documents.
- Each of these visas also needs an occupation on the relevant list, a suitable skills assessment and a points-test pass.
What it does not mean
- An EOI is not a visa application and does not give you any visa.
- Not uploading documents does not mean you can claim points you cannot prove later.
- An EOI does not guarantee an invitation.
What to do next
- 01Get your skills assessment outcome first, since the visas require a suitable assessment.
- 02Check your points honestly with the Home Affairs points calculator.
- 03Submit your EOI in SkillSelect and keep it up to date if your circumstances change.
Questions
Do I upload documents with an EOI?
No. Home Affairs says you provide personal information but do not upload documents at the EOI stage.
Do I need a skills assessment before an EOI?
The 189, 190 and 491 visas require a suitable skills assessment, so it makes sense to have one before relying on an EOI. Check the visa requirements on Home Affairs.
Official sources
- Department of Home Affairs: SkillSelect
- Department of Home Affairs: Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
Checked October 2026. Immigration rules, fees and thresholds change, so confirm them on the official page before you act.
Plan the whole route, not just the visa
In a Migo Australia plan, the migration stage includes reading how expressions of interest work on Home Affairs before you submit one, and keeps your skills assessment and document deadlines in the same checklist.
Related guides
General information, not legal or immigration advice. For advice on your own case, speak to a regulated immigration adviser or lawyer.