An EOI, meaning Expression of Interest, is an extremely important document to get a work permit in Australia as it is the first step of the process- which implies that it has to make a very good impression on the Department of Home Affairs. It is your Expression of Interest which then prompts the Department to send an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to you for further submission of documents in order to be considered for any of the worker permits.
Understanding the requirements and objectives of the EOI
The Expression of Interest is an online form on SkillSelect that asks several questions about the skills of the applicant in order to decide whether they can be invited to apply for any of the following Skilled visas:
- Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visas
- Skilled Nominated Subclass 190 visas
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Subclass 491 visa
You can employ the aid of a Migration Agent or Legal Practitioner to help you choose which visa would be the best for your case– this is dependent on the number of points you have accumulated and it important to discuss this with a professional before going through with the skills assessment on the SkillSelect website. Before applying, you have to make sure that your occupation is on the list of jobs eligible for the visa.
EOI can only be submitted after you have completed your skills assessment and have proof of your English language proficiency. It is also helpful to get a nomination from the state or territory government because it increases your chances of getting an ITA. The EOI is valid for 24 months during which you have to patiently wait for your invitation and if you receive it, you have to respond to the ITA with all the documents within 60 days.
Clearly defining your capability and experience
It is extremely important to be transparent about the information you provide and not neglect any parts of the EOI form. Personal details will include more than just your name and address so be thorough and accurate when giving information like your salary, tax obligations, etc. as well information about anyone who might be coming along (like your spouse or dependent child).
The next thing that requires more details is your employment history and qualifications. Don’t hesitate to contact your previous employers if you don’t have the precise information that the form is asking for.
Highlighting your unique value proposition
Every month, the DHA (Department of Home Affairs) receives a large pool of applicants (which is sometimes more than 4000) and sends out invitations to the applicants who seem more competent (generally having more points or on first come first served basis if there is tie). Keeping in mind this competition, it is necessary to highlight your unique strengths and value properly so you can stand out.
Bring into focus how your occupation is important for their economy and business sector. Usually they have asked questions to which you will be responding so choose the right words and convey how your occupation will be useful for the host country.
Personalising and tailoring your EOI to the specific opportunity
You have to be more competitive than a native in your field to increase your chances of selection. In order to do this, you must bring into the spotlight everything you have done in your field and the experience you have which will be a unique addition to the workforce in that particular field.
Providing relevant supporting documentation
As mentioned above, you will be required to submit the documentation for visa application within 60 days of receiving the ITA so it is advised to keep these documents prepared beforehand. Sometimes, requesting government bodies, banks, etc. for documents can take a lot of time. Check this link here to find out which documents apply to your application. Confirm with a Migration Agent as well and then keep them ready.
Proofreading and editing for accuracy and clarity
Once you have written everything but you aren’t sure about the spelling and grammar in the EOI, you can hire a translator to double check the form. If you do, you have to provide details of the translator and their registration number from the concerned authority.
If you are checking the EOI yourself, be extra careful when re-reading it- check the flow and coherence of the information along with any spelling and grammar mistakes. Make sure this is correct before submitting it because it can cost you a lot of money and time if the EOI gets rejected.
Good luck with the process!
The visa process can be quite lengthy and tests your professional abilities so give your best and research for all the steps of the process properly.
