South Australia has announced that Registration of Interest (ROI) applications are now open for eligible skilled migrants who are currently living and working in the state and whose current visas are due to expire on or before 31 January 2027.
The announcement was published on 22 October 2026 by the South Australian Government’s official migration website, Move to South Australia.
This update may be relevant to skilled workers who want to explore South Australian state nomination as part of their Australian migration plans. However, meeting the visa expiry date alone does not establish eligibility. Applicants must also meet the requirements of the relevant nomination stream.
Who Can Submit an ROI?
Under the latest announcement, the current ROI opening applies to candidates who are living and working in South Australia and whose current visas expire on or before 31 January 2027.
Applicants should check the following before proceeding:
They are currently living and working in South Australia. Their current visa expires on or before 31 January 2027. They have a current Expression of Interest (EOI) lodged through SkillSelect. Their nominated occupation is available under the relevant South Australian skilled occupation list. They meet the eligibility requirements of their intended nomination stream.
Additional requirements may apply depending on the applicant’s occupation, employment history, qualifications, skills assessment and circumstances.
Which Industries Are Being Prioritised?
South Australia has identified several priority sectors for its 2026–27 General Skilled Migration program.
These include: Building and construction Defence Education Engineering Health Manufacturing
Candidates working in these sectors may receive particular consideration. However, the announcement also states that highly ranked candidates in non-priority sectors may be considered.
Being employed in a priority sector does not automatically guarantee an invitation. Applicants should confirm that their occupation is available and that they satisfy all relevant stream requirements.
What Is the Difference Between an EOI and an ROI?
Applicants should understand the difference between these two steps.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
An EOI is submitted through SkillSelect, the Australian Government’s system managed by the Department of Home Affairs. It allows skilled candidates to express their interest in a skilled visa pathway.
Candidates seeking South Australian state nomination must have a current EOI lodged in SkillSelect.
Registration of Interest (ROI)
An ROI is submitted through South Australia’s state nomination application system. It allows eligible onshore candidates to register their interest in being considered for state nomination.
Submitting an ROI does not guarantee an invitation to apply for nomination or a visa grant.
What About Applicants Currently Living Overseas?
The process differs for offshore candidates.
According to the South Australian Government’s announcement, offshore candidates can continue lodging an EOI through SkillSelect. They do not need to submit an ROI, as suitable candidates may be invited directly based on their EOI.
Offshore applicants should check the specific requirements for the relevant offshore nomination stream, including whether their occupation is available.
How to Submit an ROI
Eligible onshore applicants should follow the official process:
Check your eligibility. Review the requirements for the relevant South Australian nomination stream and confirm that your occupation is available.
Prepare your documents. Gather evidence supporting your qualifications, skills assessment, employment and other applicable requirements.
Lodge or check your EOI. Ensure your SkillSelect EOI is current and that South Australia is selected as your preferred state.
Register through the South Australian application portal. Follow the official instructions to prepare and submit your ROI with the required information.
Wait for an outcome. South Australia will consider candidates for invitations based on its program requirements and selection priorities.
South Australia states that ROI submissions are free. However, other costs may apply at later stages of a migration or visa application.
Applicants should also be aware that an ROI receiving a “Not Invited” outcome may prevent them from submitting another ROI for three months. Review the current official instructions carefully before submitting.
Does Submitting an ROI Guarantee State Nomination?
No. Submitting an ROI does not guarantee an invitation, state nomination or visa approval.
Candidates must meet the applicable requirements, and selection depends on South Australia’s nomination process and priorities. Even if a candidate receives state nomination, they must still satisfy the relevant Australian Government visa requirements.
If your visa is approaching expiry, do not assume that submitting an ROI will extend your current visa or allow you to remain lawfully in Australia. Check your current visa conditions and seek appropriate advice about your available options.
What Should You Do Next?
If you are living and working in South Australia and your visa expires on or before 31 January 2027, this update is worth reviewing promptly.
Start by checking your occupation, EOI status and eligibility for the relevant nomination stream. Make sure your information is accurate and supported by appropriate documentation before submitting an ROI.
At EMC Australia, we encourage applicants to understand their options before taking the next step. If you would like assistance exploring your skilled migration options, you can contact our team to discuss arranging an assessment with a Registered Migration Agent.
Official Sources: South Australian Government: South Australia’s General Skilled Migration Program Update — 22 October 2026 Link:https://migration.sa.gov.au/news/south-australias-general-skilled-migration-program-update South Australian Government: How to Apply for State Nomination Link:https://migration.sa.gov.au/how-to-apply South Australian Government: Skilled Occupation Lists and Migration Information Link:https://migration.sa.gov.au/
This article provides general information only and is not migration advice. Eligibility and outcomes depend on individual circumstances and the applicable requirements at the time of application.