Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa - Subclass 491

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) provides skilled workers and their families the opportunity to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years. This visa is a gateway to Permanent Residency (Subclass 191) after meeting specific requirements.

Key Features of the Subclass 491 Visa

• Duration: Valid for up to 5 years.
• Pathway to PR: Eligibility for Subclass 191 Permanent Residency after 3 years.
• Regional Focus: Must live and work in designated regional areas.
• Points-Tested: Applicants are assessed using the points-based system under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.

Eligibility Requirements

• Nomination or Sponsorship:
  • Be nominated by a State or Territory government, or
  • Be sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.
• Occupation: Nominate an occupation on the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
• Points Test: Meet the minimum points requirement. Points are awarded for:
  • Age
  • Educational qualifications
  • Work experience (Australia and internationally)
  • English proficiency
  • Australian study experience
  • STEM qualifications
• Health and Character: Meet Australian health and character requirements.
• Age: Be under 45 years at the time of invitation.
• Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI via SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply.

Points Allocation for Subclass 491 Visa

• Nomination/Sponsorship: 15 points for nomination by a State/Territory government or sponsorship by a family member in regional Australia.
• Partner Points:
  • 10 points if your spouse/de facto partner is skilled.
  • 10 points if you do not have a spouse/de facto partner, or your partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
  • 5 points if your spouse/de facto partner demonstrates Competent English.
• STEM Qualifications: 10 points for qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Designated Regional Areas

Eligible regional locations include:

• Perth
• Adelaide
• Canberra
• Gold Coast
• Hobart

Excluded regions:

• Sydney
• Brisbane
• Melbourne

Pathway to Permanent Residency

The Subclass 491 Visa can lead to the Subclass 191 Permanent Residency Visa after meeting the following conditions:

• Regional Stay and Work: Live, work, or study in a designated regional area for 3 years.
• Minimum Income Requirement: Earn a minimum of AUD 53,900 annually for 3 consecutive years.

Limitations on Other Visa Applications

Holders of the Subclass 491 Visa may face restrictions on applying for other visas under the GSM program during their provisional period.

Steps to Apply for the Subclass 491 Visa

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the visa.
2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge your EOI through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation.
3. Obtain Nomination or Sponsorship: Secure nomination from a State/Territory government or sponsorship from an eligible family member.
4. Apply for the Visa: Submit your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
5. Provide Supporting Documents: Attach necessary documents such as skills assessment, proof of sponsorship/nomination, and evidence of meeting the points requirement.

Benefits of the Subclass 491 Visa

• Live and Work: Stay in Australia for up to 5 years.
• Family Inclusion: Include eligible family members in your application.
• Pathway to PR: Apply for the Subclass 191 Visa after meeting the residency and income conditions.
• Work Flexibility: Freedom to work in any occupation and industry within the designated regional areas.

Ready to Apply?

The Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) is your pathway to a brighter future in Australia’s thriving regional areas.

Book an appointment with Global Vision Migration today to get expert guidance on your visa application. Let us help you take the first step toward your Australian dream!

Disclaimer: This content is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).