491 Visa Requirements
491 Visa Requirements: Your Guide to the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
Australia’s Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is designed for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia. This visa offers a five-year stay with a pathway to permanent residency, making it an attractive option for migrants seeking long-term opportunities in Australia.
What is the 491 Visa?
The 491 Visa is a points-tested visa that allows skilled workers to be nominated by an Australian state, territory, or eligible family member in a designated regional area. Visa holders must live and work in regional Australia to be eligible for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
491 Visa Requirements
To qualify for the Subclass 491 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Nomination or Sponsorship
Must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government OR
Sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a regional area.
2. Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
The applicant’s occupation must be listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
A skills assessment from an approved assessing authority is required.
3. Points Test Requirement
Applicants must score at least 65 points based on factors such as age, work experience, qualifications, English proficiency, and partner skills.
4. Age Limit
Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
5. English Language Proficiency
Must demonstrate competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent).
6. Expression of Interest (EOI) & Invitation to Apply
Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect portal.
Receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs.
7. Health & Character Requirements
Must pass medical examinations and provide a police clearance certificate.
Benefits of the 491 Visa
Five-year visa with work and study rights.
Priority processing for applications.
Pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after three years of regional work.
Include family members in the visa application.
Live, work, and study in designated regional areas.
Steps to Apply for a 491 Visa
Check if your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List.
Obtain a positive Skills Assessment from the relevant authority.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
Receive a nomination or sponsorship from a state, territory, or eligible family member.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Lodge a visa application with required documents and fees.
Complete health and character checks.
Await visa approval from the Department of Home Affairs.
Key Regional Areas Eligible for the 491 Visa
The 491 Visa applies to designated regional areas, which include:
Adelaide & South Australia
Perth & Western Australia (excluding Perth city)
Canberra & Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Tasmania
Regional Queensland (excluding Brisbane)
Regional Victoria (excluding Melbourne CBD)
Regional New South Wales (excluding Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong)
Pathway to Permanent Residency
After holding a 491 Visa for three years and meeting work and income requirements, visa holders can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa.
Stay Updated on 491 Visa Opportunities
The 491 Visa is a fantastic opportunity for skilled workers to build a future in regional Australia. Since policies and requirements may change, staying informed about the latest updates is essential for a successful application.
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