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Skilled Work Regional Visa
(subclass 491)
The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa is a temporary visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the requirements, application process, and key considerations:
Streams under the 491 Visa
1. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) 491 Visa – Main Applicant
- Duration: 5 years stay with the option to apply for permanent residency after 3 years.
- Regional Commitment: You must live, work and study in a designated regional area in Australia for up to 5 years; you can travel in and out as often as desired.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after 3 years.
- Flexible Employment: Work in your nominated occupation or any occupation within regional areas.
2. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) 491 Visa – Subsequent Entrant
- Duration: Join the main visa holder for the remainder of their visa validity.
- Rights: Live, work and study in the same designated regional area as the primary visa holder; travel in and out of Australia as long as the visa is valid.
- Purpose: Allows family members of current Subclass 491 visa holders to join them in regional Australia.
- Eligibility: Must be a family member of the primary visa holder and reside in the same regional area.
- Current Visa Holder: Primary visa holder must have a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa.
Main Applicant General Requirements
- Occupation List: Each State and Territory Government has a list of in-demand occupations and specific criteria. Your EOI will be reviewed by state and territory agencies, and if it meets their criteria, you may receive a nomination invitation. For example, in NSW, you can check the NSW Regional Skills List for a list of eligible occupations for the 491 visa. Generally, your occupation must be listed on either the MLTSSL, STSOL or ROL List of occupations, but check to ensure your occupation is listed on the relevant State List in the State your are applying for.
- Positive Skills Assessment: You must hold a positive skills assessment for the eligible occupation you are applying under.
- Age: Be between 18 and 44 years old.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate Competent English or hold an approved passport. Family members 18 years or older must either have functional English or pay a second installment fee if required.
- Nomination: Obtain a nomination from a state or regional authority or be sponsored by an eligible relative in a designated regional area.
- Health and Character: Meet health and character requirements.
- Points Test: Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the skilled migration points test.
Application Steps of 491 Visa Australia
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Points: You need at least 65 points, which are awarded based on factors like age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and regional nomination.
- Regional Nomination: Receiving a regional nomination adds 15 points to your total.
Receive Regional Nomination
- Nomination Source: Obtain a nomination from a designated regional area of an Australian state or territory or be sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.
- State/Regional Requirements: Different states and territories have varied nomination requirements and processes. Check specific state or regional websites for detailed information.
Wait for Regional Invitation
- Be invited: Typically takes 2-8 weeks to receive an invitation to apply after submitting your nomination application.
Apply for 491 Visa
- Application: Lodge your visa application through the immiaccount within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
- Documents: Provide supporting documentation for work experience, education, and personal details.
491 Visa Application Fee
- Cost: AUD $4,770 for the main applicant (subject to change). Additional fees may apply for credit card payments and family members. Refer to the Home Affairs website for the most current fee information.
See related: Skilled nomination visa (Subclass 190)
Important Considerations
- Regional Commitment: You and your family must live, work, and study in a designated regional area for the duration of the visa.
- Compliance: Adhere to visa conditions, including regional requirements.
- Visa Extension: The Subclass 491 visa cannot be extended; explore other visa options for longer stays.
This visa is designed to fill skilled roles in regional Australia and provide a pathway to permanent residency. Ensure you carefully follow the requirements and processes to maximize your chances of a successful application.
Subsequent Entrant 491 Visa Application Process
- 491 Visa Application: Submit an application with required documents proving your relationship and the primary visa holder’s status.
- Health and Character Checks: Complete mandatory health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
Apply From: You can be in or outside Australia when you apply for this visa and when the Department decides on your application. If you are in Australia, you can only apply if you hold a substantive visa or a Bridging Visa (A, B, or C). A bridging visa will be granted if your application is valid.
Benefits of the Subsequent 491 Visa
- Unified Family: Stay together with your family member in regional Australia.
- Work Rights: Full work rights in regional areas.
- Education Access: Access to education facilities.
- Healthcare: Enroll in Medicare, Australia’s public health care system.
The 491 visa allows family members to join their loved ones in regional Australia, supporting the primary visa holder and enjoying the benefits of living in these areas.
Visa Home Support
Visa Home offers assistance with:
- Skills Assessment: Assistance with obtaining your skills assessment.
- Regional Nomination: Support in securing a regional nomination from a state or territory government.
- 491 Visa Application: Preparation and lodging of your visa application.
- Bridging Visa Management: Help with managing bridging visas.
For a personalised assessment of your eligibility and detailed assistance, schedule a consultation with us.