Priority Processing : Queensland Opens Registrations for Skilled Work Regional Visa Applications

Queensland's Call for Skilled Migrants

To address critical skill shortages within the state, Queensland has announced an opportunity for skilled migrants currently residing in regional areas. Migration Queensland is now accepting registrations from applicants of the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) for priority processing. This initiative is targeted at individuals living in regional Queensland who meet the state's skilled nomination criteria. Interested candidates have until Tuesday, 27 February to register for this opportunity.

Why Choose Queensland?

Queensland offers an appealing lifestyle for skilled migrants, thanks to its year-round pleasant weather and ample career opportunities. The state promises an excellent quality of life with benefits such as equal employment opportunities, safe work environments, the highest minimum wage as per OECD 2019 standards, and additional entitlements including public holidays and paid leave.

State-Nominated Skilled Visa Options

Migrating to Queensland on a skilled visa requires a nomination from the state. Managed by Migration Queensland, a business unit of Trade and Investment Queensland, state-nominated visas offer a pathway to either permanent residency or a provisional status leading to permanent residency in Queensland. The options include:

· Skilled Nominated (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 190): A points-tested visa for skilled workers seeking permanent residence in Queensland.

· Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): A five-year, points-tested visa that leads to permanent residency for nominated skilled workers in regional Queensland.

Eligibility and Occupations

To be eligible for a skilled visa in Queensland, applicants must have an occupation listed on Home Affairs’ relevant list of eligible skilled occupations. The state periodically updates its lists to reflect the current labour market needs, and certain occupations may require specific licensing to work in Queensland.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) Details

The subclass 491 visa is designed for skilled workers in regional Queensland and is valid for five years. It requires the visa holders to live and be employed within specific regional postcodes of Queensland, offering eligibility for Medicare and a path to permanent residency.

Application Regions and Criteria

Applicants must reside and work in designated regional postcodes to qualify for the subclass 491 visa. The eligible postcodes and detailed criteria for applicants, including skilled workers living in Queensland, offshore skilled workers, Queensland university graduates, and small business owners in regional Queensland, are outlined by Migration Queensland.

Closing Thoughts

This announcement underscores Queensland's proactive approach to filling its skill gaps by attracting skilled migrants to its regional areas. With the registration for priority processing now open, skilled individuals have a unique opportunity to expedite their migration journey to Queensland, a state known for its vibrant lifestyle and robust economy.