Guide to Subclass 491 Visa (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa)
The Subclass 491 visa is a temporary visa for skilled workers who wish to live and work in regional Australia. This visa provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa, provided specific conditions are met.
Key Features of the Subclass 491 Visa
- Duration:
- This visa is valid for 5 years.
- Regional Requirement:
- Visa holders must live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia.
- Regional areas include all of Australia except for Sydney metropolitan, Melbourne metropolitan, and Brisbane metropolitan.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR):
- After living and working in a regional area for 3 years, you may apply for the Subclass 191 visa to gain permanent residency.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Subclass 491 visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Points Test:
- Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the points test. Points are awarded for factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and state or family sponsorship.
- Skills Assessment:
- Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority.
- Nomination or Sponsorship:
- Be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a regional area.
- State nominations provide an additional 15 points toward your points test score.
- Expression of Interest (EOI):
- Lodge an EOI through SkillSelect, expressing your interest in the Subclass 491 visa.
- Occupation List:
- Your occupation must be on the Regional Occupation List (ROL) or other relevant skilled occupation lists.
Benefits of the Subclass 491 Visa
- Live, work, and study in regional Australia for 5 years.
- Travel in and out of Australia during the visa validity period.
- Pathway to PR through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting the 3-year regional work and residency requirements.
- Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
Application Process
- Check Eligibility:
Ensure your occupation is on the Regional Occupation List (ROL) and that you meet the points test requirements. - Skills Assessment:
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation. - Submit an EOI:
Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, indicating your interest in the Subclass 491 visa. - Nomination or Sponsorship:
- Apply for state or territory nomination.
- Alternatively, if eligible, secure sponsorship from a family member living in a regional area.
- Receive an Invitation:
- Once nominated or sponsored, receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
- Visa Application:
- Submit your visa application, including supporting documents such as your skills assessment, EOI, and nomination approval.
- Wait for Decision:
- The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and issue a visa decision.
Contact Us for Assistance
We have vast experience in handling Subclass 491 visa applications and can assist with every step of the process, including points calculation, skills assessments, and regional nomination requirements.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided is general in nature and does not constitute immigration advice. For tailored guidance, consult a registered migration agent or lawyer. Our services comply with Section 276 of the Migration Act 195