PR through Skilled Work 491 Visa Detailed Information

Key Benefits of the Subclass 491 Visa

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is designed for skilled workers who want to reside in Australia's designated regional areas. Here are the standout benefits:

• Duration of Stay: Visa holders can stay in Australia for 5 years from the date the visa is granted.
• Live, Work, and Study: You are allowed to live, work, and study only in specified regional areas of Australia.
• Travel Freedom: The visa grants you the liberty to travel to and from Australia as often as you wish while the visa remains valid.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: After holding the Subclass 491 Visa for 3 years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191).

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Subclass 491 Visa, applicants must:

1. Receive an Invitation: Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and be invited to apply for the visa.
2. Nomination or Sponsorship: You must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency or be sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated area of Australia.
3. Age Requirements: Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of the invitation.
4. Skills Assessment: A suitable skills assessment is required at the time of invitation, and you must score at least 65 points on the visa points test.
5. English Competency: Competent English is a must unless exemptions apply.

Sponsorship and Nomination

There are two pathways to satisfy this requirement:

• State or Territory Nomination: Each Australian state and territory have their criteria for nominating applicants, which can be explored by contacting them directly.
• Sponsorship by an Eligible Relative: Your sponsor must be 18 years or older, usually reside in a designated area of Australia, and meet specific familial relationships.

Application Steps

1. Submit an EOI: Start by expressing your interest through SkillSelect.
2. Gather Supporting Documents: Prepare documents to back up the claims made in your EOI and meet other visa criteria.
3. Apply Online: Once invited, apply for the visa online, ensuring you're either in or outside Australia but not in immigration clearance.
4. Await Acknowledgement: The department will notify you upon receiving your application and inform you about the bridging visa if applicable.
5. Visa Outcome: The decision will be communicated in writing, detailing the visa grant number, start date, and conditions.

Costs and Considerations

• Visa Application Charge: The main applicant fee starts from AUD 4,045, with additional charges for each family member included in the application.
• Second Installment: An extra charge applies for applicants 18 years or older with less than functional English, costing AUD 4,890.
• Additional Costs: Applicants may also incur expenses for health checks, police certificates, and biometrics.

After Applying

While waiting for a decision, ensure compliance with all Australian laws and visa conditions. Remember, the Subclass 491 Visa cannot be extended, but you may explore other visa options for prolonging your stay.

Conclusion

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is an excellent opportunity for skilled workers aiming to contribute to Australia's regional areas while enjoying the benefits of living in one of the world's most desirable destinations. By adhering to the outlined steps and meeting the eligibility criteria, applicants can embark on an exciting new chapter in Australia. For more insights and guidance on the application process, watch our comprehensive YouTube video linked in this article.