The Sսbclass 491 visa Australia , is a temporary visa that will support skilled workers and their families to settle in regional areas of Australia. It allows the applicant to obtain permanent residency if he meets or she satisfies all the eligibility criteria, which are in line with the Australian drive to unlock regional growth through the unlocking of talent attraction in less populated parts of the country. The visa can result in permanent residency of the applicant after three years under the Subclass 191 visa if the applicant satisfies the income and residence conditions.
What is Subclass 491 Visa?
This is a points-based visa that allows skilled workers to stay in regional areas of Australia, work or study, for up to five years. An eligible applicant can claim this visa if nominated by an Australian state or territory and sponsored by a family member who lives in a country of region. Subject to certain requirements being met, visa holders may apply for permanent residence
Eligibility Criteria for applying 491 visa
If you're considering applying for the 491 visa, understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial to ensure a smooth application process. The 491 visa, known as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, offers a pathway for skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. By meeting the specific requirements, you can open doors to incredible opportunities and a promising future.
Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a 491 Visa:
- Applicants must be under 45 years old and demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Must undergo a skills assessment by an authorized assessing authority relevant to the occupation.
- Must accumulate a minimum of 65 points through various factors such as age, work experience, educational qualifications, and language proficiency. The higher your points score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
- Applicants must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area. This nomination or sponsorship is essential for showcasing your skills and potential contributions to Australia's regional development.
Basic Qualities of the Subclass 491 Visa
- Temporary Residence This visa is for temporary residence, with a period of up to five years, after which one can apply for permanent residence.
- Regional Location The holder of the visa is also required to live and work in designated regional locations for at least three years.
- Permanent Residence Route Provided that there are appropriate incomes and residence, a holder of the visa will be eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 permanent residence visa
- Points-Based Applicants will score at least 65 points from the following areas: such as age, English proficiency, work experience, and education.
Submit a Regional Skilled Visa Subclass 491 application
There are several phases involved in applying for a subclass 491 visa, starting with determining whether your profession is on the Skilled Occupation List...
- Eligibility Check - You use the official points calculator to make sure you have at least the 65 required points
- Expression of Interest (EOI): - Lodge your EOI through the SkillSelect system with the conditions to apply for regional areas or family sponsorship.
- Nomination or Sponsorship - After your EOI is allocated, a state/territory will nominate you or a family member sponsors you.
- Invitation Issued - After being nominated or sponsored, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa
- Submission of Application - Complete the visa application with accompanying documents like results in skills assessment and proof of English proficiency.
- Processing Timeline - The processing time for visas is uncertain but generally ranges between 12 to 18 months.
- You have the lifelong opportunity to live and work in Australia.
- Pursue higher education within the country.
- Enroll in the Australian Government health scheme.
- Your spouse can also apply as a primary applicant.
- Under sponsorship, eligible family members or relatives can become permanent residents as subsequent entrants.
Total Expenses for Visa 491 Application
| Applicant | Fees Factor | AUD |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Applicant | Subclass 491 | 4,115 |
| Reliant (18 years and above) | Subclass 491 | 2,055 |
| Reliant (18 years and below) | Subclass 491 | 1,030 |
| For each applicant and dependent | Biometrics | 60 |
| For each applicant and dependent | Medical Test | 350 |
| For each applicant and dependent | Police Clearance Certificate | Depends |
Important FAQ's
When becoming an Australian permanent resident, you gain several benefits...
To convert your 491 visa into permanent residency under subclass 191, you need to meet specific requirements, such as living and working in a regional area for at least three years and earning a minimum salary threshold.
Generally, 491 visa processing takes about 9 to 12 months, but the timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances and the volume of applications.
Yes, you can include your dependents (spouse, children, or other eligible family members) in your 491 visa application, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligible occupations for the 491 visa are listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List. Your nominated occupation must be in demand in regional Australia.
To be eligible for the 491 visa, applicants must meet the salary threshold, which is typically set by the Australian Government and varies each year. For the 491 visa, it is important to have a stable income in a regional area.
Yes, you can include your spouse, dependent children, and other eligible family members in your application for the 491 visa. They must meet the eligibility criteria to be included.
