*Last updated on: 25 Nov 2024
Copyright © 2024 Giant Steps Immigration Services. All rights reserved.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa
Provisional Visa for Skilled Workers in Regional Australia
Overview of the Subclass 491 Visa
The Subclass 491 Visa is a skilled work regional (provisional) visa designed to attract skilled workers to live, work, and contribute to regional areas in Australia. This visa is valid for five years and offers a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa. Applicants must be either nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.
Key Features of the 491 Visa
Duration: Five years, with a pathway to permanent residency.
Regional Living: Encourages economic development in designated regional areas.
Family Inclusion: Allows inclusion of eligible family members.
Path to PR: Eligible for Subclass 191 Visa after three years of regional living and meeting income criteria.
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 491 Visa Applicants
Nomination or Sponsorship
Be nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by a family member living in a designated regional area.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Lodge an EOI through the SkillSelect system and receive an invitation to apply.
Age Requirements
Must be under 45 years old at the time of receiving an invitation to apply.
Points Test
Achieve a minimum of 65 points based on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and qualifications.
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment in a nominated occupation listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
English Language Proficiency
Competent English is required, demonstrated through approved tests or passports from specific English-speaking countries. Minimum scores include:
- IELTS: 6 in each component (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).
- PTE Academic: 50 in each of the four skills.
- Equivalent scores from other tests or exemptions may apply.
Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must meet specified health and character criteria as set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Assessing Your Occupation
General rule: To apply for the medium and long-term stream, visa applicants must have a nominated occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
To apply for the short term stream, visa applicants must have a nominated occupation listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
Application Process
01
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create an EOI through the SkillSelect system, detailing qualifications, work experience, English skills, and more.
02
Obtain Nomination or Sponsorship
Gain nomination from a state/territory government or sponsorship from a family member in a regional area.
03
Receive Invitation to Apply & Submit Visa Application
Invitations are issued based on the points score and regional requirements. Then lodge a visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
Stay Duration
The Subclass 491 Visa is valid for five years. After meeting the eligibility criteria—such as residing in a designated regional area for three years and earning the required income threshold—visa holders can apply for the Subclass 191 Visa for permanent residency.
Visa Costs and Fees
Visa Application Fee:
Primary Applicant: AUD $4,770.
Secondary Applicants (18 and over): AUD $2,385.
Dependent Children (under 18): AUD $1,190.
An additional visa fee of $4,890 applies if an applicant does not have functional English.
Note: The fees are subject to the latest pricing set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Please verify before any decision making.
Processing Times
50% of applications processed within 20 months.
90% of applications processed within 23 months.
Note: Processing times vary based on the completeness of documentation and other factors. They are obtained from The Australian Department of Home Affairs website and only serve as guidance.
Benefits of Subclass 491 Visa
1. Live, work, and study in regional Australia for five years.
2. Access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
3. Pathway to Permanent Residency through Subclass 191 after meeting specific criteria.
4. Include eligible family members in your visa application.
5. Travel freely in and out of Australia during the visa’s validity period.
Your Questions Answered
What is the Subclass 491 Visa?
The Subclass 491 Visa is a provisional visa for skilled workers who wish to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia.
How long is the 491 Visa valid?
The visa is valid for five years.
Can this visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes, holders can apply for permanent residency (Subclass 191 Visa) after meeting regional living and income requirements.
What are the eligibility criteria for the 491 Visa?
Applicants must meet age, skills assessment, points test, English proficiency, and nomination or sponsorship requirements.
Can I include my family in the visa application?
Yes, eligible family members, including spouses and dependent children, can be included.
What occupations are eligible for the 491 Visa?
Occupations listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List are eligible.
Is there an English language requirement?
Yes, applicants must demonstrate competent English proficiency through approved tests.
What happens if I breach visa conditions?
Breaching conditions can impact your pathway to permanent residency and lead to visa cancellation.
Can I switch regions while on a 491 Visa?
You are generally expected to live and work in the nominating region.
What happens if my 491 Visa expires?
You can apply for permanent residency (Subclass 191 Visa) if you meet the eligibility criteria.
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Copyright © 2024 Giant Steps Immigration Services. All rights reserved.