Difference Between Subclass 190 & Subclass 491
When considering skilled migration to Australia, understanding the distinctions between the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas is crucial. Both visas cater to skilled workers but differ in terms of residency status, geographic requirements, and pathways to permanent residency.
Subclass 190 Visa: Skilled Nominated Visa
The Subclass 190 visa is a pemanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. This visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely.
Key Features:
- Permanent Residency: Grants immediate PR status, access to Medicare, social security benefits, and sponsorship rights.
- State/Territory Nomination: Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory government.
- Points-Based System: Adds 5 points to the applicant's score.
- Work and Residency Obligation: Recommended to stay in the nominating state for at least two years.
- Citizenship Pathway: Eligible for citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
Subclass 491 Visa: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Subclass 491 visa is a provisional visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia.
Key Features:
- Provisional Residency: Valid for five years with a pathway to PR through the Subclass 191 visa.
- Regional Requirement: Must live, work, and study in designated regional areas.
- State/Territory Nomination or Family Sponsorship: Requires nomination or eligible family sponsorship.
- Points-Based System: Adds 15 points to the applicant's score.
- Work and Income Requirement: Must earn at least AUD 53,900 per annum for three years for PR eligibility.
Comparative Overview
| Aspect | Subclass 190 Visa | Subclass 491 Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Residency Status | Permanent | Provisional (5 years) |
| Geographic Flexibility | Anywhere in Australia | Designated regional areas only |
| Nomination/Sponsorship | State/Territory nomination | State/Territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship |
| Points Allocation | +5 points | +15 points |
| Pathway to PR | Immediate | After 3 years in regional area and meeting income requirements |
Visa Application Fees (As of February 2025)
- Subclass 190 Visa:
- Primary Applicant: AUD 4,770
- Additional Applicant (18+): AUD 2,385
- Additional Applicant (Under 18): AUD 1,190
- Subclass 491 Visa:
- Primary Applicant: AUD 4,770
- Additional Applicant (18+): AUD 2,385
- Additional Applicant (Under 18): AUD 1,190
How Peerless Immigration Services Can Assist You?
Applying for an Australian visa can be complex, requiring thorough documentation, state nominations, and adherence to strict immigration laws. Peerless Immigration Services is dedicated to making your migration journey seamless and stress-free. Our team of experienced consultants provides end-to-end support to maximize your chances of visa approval. Here’s how we can assist you:
- Profile Evaluation: Before applying for a visa, it is crucial to determine your eligibility. Our experts assess your qualifications, work experience, skills, and points score to recommend the best pathway for your Australian migration. We also advise on ways to improve your eligibility, such as enhancing language scores or gaining additional work experience.
- State Nomination Guidance: Each Australian state and territory has its own set of eligibility criteria and occupation lists for state nomination. We analyze your profile and guide you in selecting the most suitable state for your application. Additionally, we assist in preparing and submitting the nomination application to maximize your chances of success.
- Documentation Assistance: Submitting an accurate and complete set of documents is one of the most crucial aspects of a visa application. Our team ensures that all required documents, such as skills assessments, English proficiency results, work experience proofs, and nomination approvals, are correctly prepared and submitted.
- Visa Application Submission: Our team ensures that your visa application is error-free and compliant with Australian immigration requirements. We handle the entire submission process, monitor the application status, and keep you updated on any required actions or additional documentation requests from the Department of Home Affairs.
- Post-Landing Services: Moving to a new country comes with its own set of challenges. Our post-landing services help you settle in Australia by providing guidance on job search strategies, accommodation arrangements, banking, healthcare registration (Medicare), tax file number (TFN) applications, and networking opportunities within your profession.
- Subclass 191 PR Transition Support: For Subclass 491 visa holders, we provide guidance on meeting the requirements for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa. This includes tracking income thresholds, regional work commitments, and ensuring compliance with visa conditions to successfully transition to Australian PR.
At Peerless Immigration Services, we are committed to helping you achieve your Australian migration goals with transparency, professionalism, and personalized support.
Let us simplify your migration journey with expert guidance and professional support. Reach out to us today for a consultation and take the first step toward your dream of living in Australia!
FAQ
The Subclass 190 is a Skilled Nominated Visa for permanent residency, whereas the Subclass 491 is a regional provisional visa, which is temporary. The Subclass 190 allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia, while the Subclass 491 requires you to live and work in a designated regional area before transitioning to permanent residency.
Yes, the Subclass 190 visa is a permanent visa that grants permanent residency in Australia once granted. You do not need to transition to another visa category after obtaining it.
The processing time for the Subclass 491 visa typically ranges between 6 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the application and the number of applications the Australian Department of Home Affairs is handling at the time.
Yes, to apply for the Subclass 190 visa, you must first receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory. This nomination will give you additional points in the points-based immigration system, improving your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
Yes, after holding the Subclass 491 visa for 3 years while living and working in a regional area, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa, provided you meet the necessary requirements.
