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DIFFEREN VISAS TO AUSTRALIA:
Skilled Work Regional Visa 491 – Your Pathway to Australian Residency
Australia offers an excellent opportunity for skilled workers to live and work in regional areas through the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491). This 5-year temporary visa allows skilled professionals to contribute to regional communities and provides a pathway to permanent residency after 3 years of living and working in regional Australia. The Subclass 491 Visa is one of several work visa options available in Australia.
If you’re a skilled worker looking to expand your career in Australia’s regional areas, the Subclass 491 Visa could be the perfect choice for you.
What is the Skilled Work Regional Visa?
The Skilled Work Regional Visa is designed for skilled workers who want to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. It offers the unique opportunity for eligible individuals to gain experience in regions that require skilled labor. This temporary visa allows you to work, live, and study in regional Australia, with the long-term benefit of a potential transition to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa.
Key Benefits of the Regional Skilled Visa
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Visa 491 offers a clear pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa.
- Regional Area Advantage: Unlike other work visas, the Regional Visa Australia encourages skilled professionals to settle and work in areas where Australia’s labor market needs are high.
- Access to Healthcare and Work Rights: Holders of the Skilled Regional Visa can access Australia’s Medicare system and enjoy full work rights across Australia’s regional sectors.
Subclass 491 Visa General Requirements
To qualify for the Subclass 491 Visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria:
• Family-sponsored applicants- have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list for family-sponsored applicants only
• Employer-sponsored applicants-have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
• complete a successful skill assessment
• have at least competent English
• score at least 65 points. Calculate your points
• be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency or be sponsored by an eligible relative.
• be at least 18 years of age and younger than 45 years of age
• be invited to apply
For more comprehensive information regarding 491 skilled visa contact one of our expert agents at 1300 10 50 50 or email us here.
Eligible Regional Areas for the Subclass 491 Visa
The Designated Area Migration Visa system restricts this visa to specific regional areas, making it crucial to understand where you can live and work. Some key areas include:
- Regional Australia (outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane)
- Skilled Work Regional Visa areas across Tasmania, Northern Territory, and South Australia.
- New South Wales Regional Areas with identified skills shortages.
Living and working in these regional areas can help applicants meet the requirements for future permanent residency.
Transitioning from Subclass 491 to Subclass 191 Permanent Residency
One of the key advantages of the Skilled Work Regional Visa is the transition it offers to permanent residency. After holding the 491 Visa for three years, visa holders who have worked in regional areas and meet income and residence requirements may apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa. This pathway makes the 491 Visa an attractive option for skilled workers looking to build a future in Australia.
How to Apply for the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
The application process for the Subclass 491 Visa involves several key steps:
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Create and submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system, outlining your qualifications and work experience.
- Sponsorship/ Nomination: Obtain sponsorship from a family member, or state/territory government to proceed with your application.
- Submit Visa Application: Once nominated, you can submit your 491 Visa application and undergo health and character checks.
Cost of the Subclass 491 Visa and Processing Times
The 491 Temporary Work Visa has a processing time of approximately 6 to 12 months, depending on individual circumstances and application complexity. The visa fee varies, so it’s important to check the most current rates when applying.
Conclusion – Why Choose the Skilled Work Regional Visa?
If you’re a skilled worker looking to advance your career in Australia, the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) provides an excellent opportunity. This visa allows you to gain experience in Australia’s regional areas and offers a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa. With the right support and understanding of eligibility requirements, the 491 Visa could be your ticket to building a successful life in Australia.
190 visa vs. 189 visa
The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) and Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) are both for skilled workers wanting permanent residency in Australia. The main difference is that the 190 Visa requires a nomination from a state or territory, while the 189 Visa does not. With the 190 Visa, you must be nominated by an Australian state, which helps you meet the Skilled Migration requirements. This visa lets you live and work in the nominating state. In contrast, the 189 Visa is for skilled workers who don’t need state nomination. It allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia. Both visas offer permanent residency, but the 190 Visa has state nomination, while the 189 Visa is independent.
