What is the Invitation to Apply for an Australian visa?
There are many parts to general skilled migration visa applications. One of these parts is the Invitation to Apply for an Australian visa. Continue reading to find out what it is and where it fits into the process.
What is the Invitation to Apply?
The Invitation to Apply is as the name suggests – an invitation to apply for a visa, specifically certain skilled migration visas:
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
- Skilled Nomination Visa (subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)
From your Invitation to Apply, you’ll learn the following:
- Under which subclass you are being invited to apply.
- The time frame within which you have to make your application.
- Additional information to include, if applicable.
Where does the Invitation to Apply fit into the visa application process?
The Invitation to Apply is the third step in your skilled migration visa application:
Step 1:
The first step is getting your eligibility assessed for general skilled migration by means of a points-based assessment. You must get 65 points or more to move on to the next stage.
Step 2:
Should you qualify for skilled migration to Australia, the second step is submitting an Expression of Interest. This in application which details:
- The visa subclass and stream you intend to apply for.
- Whether you’re seeking sponsorship from a state or territory government; and
- If you’re open to living in specific states or territories.
The Expression of Interest also judges your application on a points-bases and against other EOIs. Once this evaluation is completed, a decision is then made whether or not to invite you to make a visa application.
Step 3:
If your Expression of Interest is selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply for an Australian visa for general skilled migration.
How often are Invitations to Apply extended?
Invitations to apply are usually extended on a monthly basis. SkillSelect and the Department of Home Affairs publish reports after each month’s invitation round which shows the lowest-scoring test marks.
What should I go if I get an Invitation to Apply?
If you receive an invitation, you’ll have 60 days to apply for the visa. Our immigration agents will guide you through this stage and assist with the process.
What if I don’t get an Invitation to Apply for an Australian visa?
If you’re not invited to apply within two years of submitting your EOI, your EOI will expire. The Department of Home Affairs will send you an email when your EOI is about to expire.
Do you have more questions?
Please feel free to contact us should you have any other questions about the Invitation to Apply. You can also read more about the Invitation to Apply and general skilled migration on our website.
