The Moment You’ve Been Waiting For
You’ve submitted your Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, and now you’ve received the long-awaited skilled migration invitation to apply for a skilled visa to Australia. Congratulations!
But what next?
Receiving this invitation is a major milestone, but it’s also the stage where many applicants falter due to lack of preparation. This guide walks you step-by-step through what to do after receiving a skilled migration invitation so you can move forward confidently.
Understanding the Skilled Migration Invitation
A skilled migration invitation:
- Is not a visa grant
- Is an official Invitation to Apply (ITA) for visas like:
- Skilled Independent (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491)
You typically have 60 days to lodge a complete application.
Step-by-Step: What to Do After Receiving a Skilled Migration Invitation
Step 1: Understand Your Invitation Details
Review your EOI points: Ensure that the points claimed in your EOI (age, English proficiency, qualifications, work experience, etc.) are still valid.
Check your nominated occupation: Ensure it aligns with the current Skilled Occupation List for your visa subclass.
Confirm your visa subclass (189, 190 or 491): Your invitation will state whether it is for the 189, 190, or 491 visa. Each has different requirements and implications (e.g., state nomination, regional obligations).
Step 2: Gather All Supporting Documentation
To complete your visa application, you'll need comprehensive and well-documented evidence to support your EOI claims. Typical documents include:
Identity documents: Passport, birth certificate.
English language test results: IELTS, PTE, TOEFL – ensure they are still valid (usually within 3 years).
Skills assessment: A valid skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority (like ACS, Engineers Australia, etc.).
Work experience documents: Employment references, payslips, tax documents.
Educational qualifications: Degrees, transcripts, certificates.
Character documents: Police clearance certificates from all countries where you've lived more than 12 months.
Health examination: You may need to complete a medical examination.
Step 3: Submit Your Visa Application Within the Deadline
You must lodge your visa within 60 days:
Apply through ImmiAccount: This is the official platform for Australian visa applications.
Ensure accuracy: All claims in your EOI must be backed by evidence. Any discrepancies can lead to refusal.Pay the visa application charge: Fees vary depending on the visa subclass and number of dependents.
Visa Application Charges (as of November 2025)
Source: Australian Government Department of Home Affairs
Subclass 189 – From AUD $4,640
Subclass 190 – From AUD $4,640
Subclass 491 – From AUD $4,640
Considering a move to Australia or need assistance with your visa application? Book a visa consultation with our Registered Migration Agents.
Step 4: Complete Health and Character Checks
Undergo a medical examination with a panel physician approved by the Department of Home Affairs.
Provide police clearance certificates from each country you've lived in for more than 12 months during the past 10 years.
Step 5: Monitor Your Application Progress
Once submitted:
Keep checking your ImmiAccount for updates or requests for additional information.Respond promptly to any communication from the Department.
Most skilled visas take 6 to 12 months to process, depending on the stream and the accuracy of your application.
Step 6: Prepare for Settlement in Australia
While waiting:
Research your destination city or region (especially if you’re under a 190 or 491 visa).
Start gathering documents for your move – educational records, vaccination records, employment references.
Understand your obligations, especially if you are nominated by a state or applying for a regional visa (491). These include living and working in a specified area for at least 3 years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect documentation
Missing the 60-day deadline
Using outdated test scores
Not responding to requests
Incorrect subclass eligibility
Key Visa Streams You Might Be Invited For
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent
- PR pathway
- No sponsor required
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated
- Requires state nomination
- PR with state obligations
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional
- 5-year provisional
- Leads to PR after 3 years in regional Australia
Timeline Overview
| Step | Action | Timeframe |
| 1 | Review EOI | Immediately |
| 2 | Gather documents | 1–2 weeks |
| 3 | Apply | Within 60 days |
| 4 | Medical + police | 1–4 weeks |
| 5 | Processing | 6–12 months |
| 6 | Move | After visa grant |
Final Thoughts
A skilled migration invitation is a major opportunity—one that requires accuracy, timely action, and understanding of your visa conditions. With proper preparation, your pathway to Australian residency becomes smoother and more successful.
Ready to Lodge Your Skilled Visa Application?
If you're unsure about the next steps, expert help can make all the difference.
Considering a move to Australia or need assistance with your visa application? Book a visa consultation with our experienced Registered Migration Agents. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the Migration Program and take your first step towards a promising future in Australia.
Remember:
This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent
Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to our weekly newsletter to get the latest news about all things visas & immigration.
