Congratulations on receiving your 189 invitation! However, navigating the next steps requires caution. Here’s a deep dive into the most critical post-invitation challenges and how to address them:

Issue 1: Expired Documents After Invitation

Validity Periods Summary:

Skills Assessment: 2-3 years (varies by assessing authority)

English Test Results: 3 years (e.g., IELTS, PTE)

CCL/NAATI Certification: 5 years (NAATI accreditation: 3 years)

Professional Year (PY): 4 years (from completion date)

Scenario 1: Documents Expired BEFORE Invitation

All documents (except skills assessment) must be valid on the day of invitation. If expired, your invitation may be cancelled even if renewed within 60 days.

Skills Assessment: Can be renewed within 60 days post-invitation (but not recommended—risk of delays).

Scenario 2: Documents Expired AFTER Invitation

If documents were valid on the invitation date, expiration during the 60-day lodgement period does not affect application validity.

Issue 2: Lodging 189 Application Offshore

Yes, you can lodge offshore if your EOI was submitted as "onshore" but you temporarily left Australia.

Critical Note: Offshore applicants will not receive a Bridging Visa. Plan your return to Australia carefully if needed.

Recommendation: Lodge applications based on your travel plans to avoid complications.

Issue 3: Strategies to Delay Visa Grant

While the Department of Home Affairs’ processing times are unpredictable, you can tactically delay your application:

Lodge on the 60th day after invitation to maximize preparation time.

Postpone medical exams until requested by the department (then use the full deadline).

Wait for official requests to upload police checks (avoid premature submissions).

Pro Tips:

Strictly monitor the 60-day lodgement deadline (miss = invitation cancellation).

Time-sensitive documents (e.g., medicals, police checks) should be scheduled closer to department requests.

Be prepared for unexpected accelerated processing—have documents ready.

Final Advice

Double-check all document expiry dates before submitting EOI.

Consult a registered migration agent for personalized strategies.

Track your application portal regularly for updates and requests.

Need Help? Contact our team for expert guidance to ensure a smooth 189 visa process!