Subclass 491 Visa: Your Pathway to Living & Working in Regional Australia

Understanding the Subclass 491 Visa

The Subclass 491 visa, officially known as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa, is a points-tested visa that enables skilled workers and their families to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years. This visa offers a direct pathway to permanent residency under the Subclass 191 visa after three years, making it an attractive option for skilled professionals.

Benefits of the Subclass 491 Visa

• Work and live in regional Australia: This visa allows skilled workers to reside in growing regional communities, providing them with employment and lifestyle opportunities.
• Pathway to permanent residency: After three years of holding the visa and meeting eligibility requirements, visa holders can apply for the Subclass 191 visa for permanent residency.
• Extended stay: The visa is valid for up to five years, allowing ample time to meet residency and work requirements.
• Family inclusion: Applicants can include their family members, providing them with the same work and study rights.

Eligibility Criteria for the Subclass 491 Visa

To apply for the Subclass 491 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be nominated or sponsored: Candidates must either be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.
2. Meet the occupation requirements: Applicants must have their occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.
3. Skills assessment: A positive skills assessment from an appropriate assessing authority is required.
4. Meet points test requirements: A minimum of 65 points is needed under the Department of Home Affairs’ points system.
5. Age limit: Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
6. English proficiency: Competent English is required.
7. Health and character requirements: Applicants must meet Australia’s health and character standards.

Application Process for the Subclass 491 Visa

1. Check eligibility: Ensure that you meet the visa criteria, including nomination, occupation list, and points test requirements.
2. Obtain a skills assessment: Apply for a skills assessment through a relevant authority.
3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge an EOI via SkillSelect, specifying the state or territory where you want to apply.
4. Receive nomination or sponsorship: Secure a nomination from a state or territory government or sponsorship from an eligible family member.
5. Receive an invitation to apply: If selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
6. Lodge your visa application: Submit your application online through the Department of Home Affairs portal, including necessary documents and fees.
7. Await visa decision: The processing time varies, and applicants may need to provide additional information.

Regional Areas Eligible for the Subclass 491 Visa

Australia defines regional areas as all locations outside Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Some popular regions include:

• Newcastle, New South Wales
• Wollongong, New South Wales
• Adelaide, South Australia
• Perth, Western Australia
• Hobart, Tasmania
• Darwin, Northern Territory
• Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
• Regional New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland

Financial Considerations

Costs Associated with the Subclass 491 Visa

• Primary applicant fee: AUD $4770
• Additional applicant fee (18+ years): AUD $2385
• Additional applicant fee (under 18 years): AUD $1190
• Health and police checks: Additional costs apply depending on the applicant’s country of residence.
• Skills assessment fees: Varies based on occupation and assessing authority.

Subclass 491 Visa Processing Time

Processing times may vary due to several factors, such as the number of applications received and the completeness of the application. As of the latest updates:

• 75% of applications are processed within 9 months.
• 90% of applications are processed within 12 months.

Transition to Permanent Residency

After holding a Subclass 491 visa for at least three years and meeting the relevant requirements—such as living and working in a designated regional area—applicants may become eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa.

Conclusion

The Subclass 491 visa provides skilled professionals with an excellent opportunity to build a future in regional Australia. With its clear pathway to permanent residency and wide range of eligible occupations, this visa is a great option for those looking to secure their long-term future in Australia. By ensuring you meet all eligibility requirements and following the correct application process, you can increase your chances of successfully obtaining this visa and making the most of what regional Australia has to offer.

FAQs

1. How long is the Subclass 491 visa valid for?

The Subclass 491 visa is valid for up to five years.

2. Can I move between regional areas on a 491 visa?

Yes, you can move between designated regional areas but cannot relocate to major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane.

3. Do I need a job offer to apply for the 491 visa?

A job offer is not always necessary, but you must have a nomination from a state or territory or sponsorship from an eligible family member.

4. Can my family members work and study in Australia under this visa?

Yes, family members included in the application have full work and study rights.

5. Is there an age limit for the Subclass 491 visa?

Yes, applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of receiving an invitation to apply.