On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form Form 160?)
- Context and workflow
- Failure prevention (What causes Form Form 160 rejections?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form Form 160?)
- Checklist (What is the Form Form 160 checklist?)
- Where to file
- Fees
- Key terms
- Strategy tips
- Common mistakes (What mistakes are common with Form Form 160?)
- Examples (What are examples for Form Form 160?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form Form 160?)
- Edge cases and variations
- In-depth guidance
- Scenarios
- Key differentiators
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Quick summary
#Review the official instructions to confirm you meet the filing requirements for Form 160, as described in the Form 1229 guide, as described in the Form 956 guide.
When the official instructions indicate this form is required
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form Form 160?)
#The process requires careful preparation and adherence to the guidelines set by Home Affairs to maximize the chances of a successful application.
Official portal interface for Form 160
Source: Form 160 online portal
Context and workflow
#The skilled visa application process begins once you receive an invitation, as outlined in the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) guide.
Why this matters
- This form acts as a cross-check point: details here must match other forms and supporting documents.
- Small mismatches inside Form 160 (or between Form 160 and supporting evidence) can force rework later in processing.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Processing time for Form 160 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official Home Affairs processing time tool.
- Initiates the skilled visa application process after receiving an invitation.
- Application acknowledgement (via ImmiAccount)
- Provide biometrics at an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre
- Visa grant notification by email
- Form 160 is commonly filed alongside Form 80.
Who uses it
Ensure you review the official instructions to verify your eligibility to file Form 160.
When it is used
- When the official instructions indicate this form is required
- As part of a complete application package with supporting documents
Failure prevention (What causes Form Form 160 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Not submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) before applying.
- Incorrectly entering the invitation code.
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Lack of supporting documents for qualifications.
What you need (What do you need for Form Form 160?)
#- The current edition of Form 160
- Proof of identity
- Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence.
- [object Object]
Checklist (What is the Form Form 160 checklist?)
#- Access the latest Form 160 and its accompanying instructions directly from the official Home Affairs website.
- Review the official Form 160 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of Form 160
- Sign, date, and submit Form 160 along with all necessary supporting evidence.
Sources for this section
Where to file
#Submit your application at the designated Home Affairs office, embassy, or consulate. Check the official website for the location with jurisdiction over your place of residence.
Submit application
Submit your application at the Home Affairs office or designated embassy/consulate in your country of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct location.
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official Home Affairs website before submitting. For related guidance, see Nomination for an Approved Position.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form form 160. Check the current fee on the official Home Affairs fee schedule. | See official schedule |
| Biometrics Services FeeA biometrics fee may be required depending on your category. Check the official fee schedule. | See official schedule |
Can the Form Form 160 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
Home Affairs will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Personal Particulars for Assessment Including Character.
Fees change; always verify on Home Affairs.
Key terms
#- Expression of Interest (EOI)
- A formal indication of interest in applying for a visa.In this form: Submitting an EOI is required to be considered for a Skilled Nominated visa.
Strategy tips
#Common mistakes (What mistakes are common with Form Form 160?)
#- Neglecting to submit an expression of interest (EOI) prior to application.
- Incomplete or inaccurate work experience details.
Sources for this section
Examples (What are examples for Form Form 160?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
- Common weakness: Sponsor or nominator forgets to sign; form returned, causing delay.
- Weak application: An applicant submits Form 160 without an EOI, resulting in immediate rejection due to incomplete application requirements.
- [object Object]
- [object Object]
- [object Object]
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form Form 160?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Filing does not authorize immediate work
- Work permits are employer- or category-specific; changing jobs may require a new permit
- [object Object]
Edge cases and variations
#- Some sponsorship types require a co-signer or additional financial evaluation.
- If you are asked to submit or update Form 160, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
In-depth guidance
#How to complete this form reliably
Treat Form 160 as part of a system, not a standalone document. Most delays happen when details conflict across the form, supporting documents, and other parts of the application package. Before you start, gather the documents you will reference and decide which one is the source of truth for each field.
Fill the form in one sitting if possible. Partially-completed forms are where inconsistent edits creep in. When you finish, review each section and ask "what evidence in my package proves this statement?"
Scenarios
#A skilled worker with a state nomination and 75 points lodges Form 160 for a Subclass 190 visa with a positive skills assessment, English test results, and employment references.
Application accepted and proceeds to health and character checks. Visa granted after all checks clear.
Most applicants use the online SkillSelect/ImmiAccount system instead of paper Form 160. Confirm whether your category requires the paper form before completing it.
An applicant submits Form 160 but their skills assessment has expired (older than 3 years).
Application refused. Skills assessments have validity periods and must be current at time of invitation and application.
Check the validity period of your skills assessment before applying. If it has expired or is about to expire, obtain a new assessment before lodging.
An applicant lodges Form 160 for a Subclass 491 regional visa but their nominated occupation has been removed from the relevant occupation list.
Application cannot proceed. The occupation must be on the list at the time of application.
Verify your occupation is still on the relevant skilled occupation list at the time of lodging. Lists are updated periodically and occupations can be added or removed.
Key differentiators
#- Unlike Skilled Independent visa: Requires nomination or sponsorship by an Australian state or territory.
- Unlike Form 80: Personal Particulars for Assessment Including Character Assessment: Filed together: Character assessment required for applicants 16+ (Skilled migration pathway)
- Unlike Form 1281: Nomination for an Approved Position: Required for: Employer nomination required for sponsored streams (Skilled migration pathway)
Why it matters
#Submitting an EOI is a prerequisite for applying.
Why it matters: Without an EOI, you cannot be invited to apply for the visa.
Next steps
#- Application acknowledgement (via ImmiAccount)
- Provide biometrics at an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre
- Visa grant notification by email
- Receive visa grant notice and plan for travel
- Ensure compliance with visa conditions upon arrival in Australia
Verification
#This guide is based on official Home Affairs instructions for Form 160 and is updated with any changes to form editions or filing rules. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official Home Affairs website.
FAQs
Why does Home Affairs need the information requested on Form 160?
Consult the official Form 160 instructions for comprehensive guidance tailored to your specific immigration case and circumstances.
What other forms are typically filed together with Form 160?
To determine which forms need to be submitted together, carefully review the instructions specific to your immigration category.
What are common misconceptions about Form 160?
People think they can apply for a skilled visa without an invitation because they meet the basic requirements, but actually an invitation is necessary after submitting an EOI.
What should I do if I haven't received an invitation to apply?
Ensure your EOI is complete and meets the necessary criteria.
Can I submit Form 160 without an EOI?
Ensure your EOI is submitted and you have received an invitation to apply.
What happens after I submit Form 160?
After submitting Form 160, Home Affairs will issue a Confirmation of receipt confirming acceptance. You may then be scheduled for biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence requests depending on your case. You can monitor your case status online using the receipt number from your notice.
What are common mistakes when filing Form 160?
Common mistakes include submitting incomplete forms, missing required signatures, paying incorrect fees, and failing to include all required supporting documents. Even minor errors can cause significant delays or outright rejection of your application. Double-check every section, verify fee amounts on the official Home Affairs schedule, and review the instructions thoroughly before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. Use Find My Visa to get a personalized checklist with official sources and deadlines.
Find my visa