Subclass 491 Visa: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa Information

Everything You Need to Know About the Subclass 491 Visa: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

The Subclass 491 Visa is a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa that allows skilled workers and their families to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years. This visa is designed to encourage migrants to live in regional areas, which can help boost the local economy and fill skill shortages.

In this information sheet, we’ll cover all the essential details you need to know about the SC 491 visa, including eligibility, application steps, and pathways to permanent residency.

What is the Subclass 491 Visa?

The Subclass 491 Visa is a points-tested visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area. This visa allows you to live in regional Australia for up to five years, with the option to apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa once certain criteria are met.

Key Benefits of the SC 491 Visa

  • 5-year visa to live, work, and study in regional Australia.
  • Multiple entries into and out of Australia during the visa validity period.
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency
  • Access to Australia’s Medicare public healthcare system.
  • Opportunity to bring eligible family members on the same visa.
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Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the SC 491 Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Invitation to Apply

You must be invited to apply by either a state/territory government or an eligible family member.

2. Nomination or Sponsorship

◦ You must be nominated by a state or territory government OR

◦ Sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.

3. Skills Assessment

◦ You need a positive skills assessment in an occupation that is listed on the relevant skilled occupation list for the 491 visas. The assessment must be completed by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.

4. Points Test

◦ You must score at least 65 points on the points test. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, qualifications, and whether you have been nominated by a state or sponsored by a family member.

5. Age Requirement

You must be under 45 years old at the time of being invited to apply.

6. English Proficiency

◦ You must have competent English or higher, as evidenced by an accepted English language test (e.g., IELTS, PTE).

Designated Regional Areas

Some of the benefits of living in regional Australia include lower living costs, greater job opportunities in certain sectors, and a slower pace of life.

States and territories actively participating in the 491-visa program may prioritise certain occupations depending on the skill shortages in their regions.

Transition to Permanent Residency (Subclass 191 Visa)

One of the greatest advantages of the SC 491 Visa is that it provides a clear pathway to permanent residency. After holding the 491 visas for at least 3 years, you may be eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 (Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)) Visa. To qualify, you must:

  • Live and work in a designated regional area for at least 3 years.
  • Earn a minimum income threshold for those 3 years (this amount is subject to change each financial year).
  • Comply with all visa conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Subclass 491 Visa offers a fantastic opportunity for skilled migrants to live and work in regional Australia with a clear pathway to permanent residency. However, navigating the points test, securing a state nomination, or meeting income thresholds can be complex. Seeking professional advice from a registered migration agent can help increase your chances of a successful application and make the process smoother.

If you need assistance with your SC 491 Visa application, feel free to contact us. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I include family members in my SC 491 visa application?

A: Yes, you can include eligible family members, such as your spouse/partner and dependent children, in your visa application.

Q: Can I move between different regional areas?

A: Yes, you are allowed to move between different designated regional areas in Australia while holding the SC 491 Visa.

Q: What is the minimum income requirement to apply for permanent residency under the SC 191 Visa?

A: The specific income threshold can change, so it’s essential to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest figures.

Contact Anu@anagramimmigration.com to assess your eligibility for a SC491 visa

Work Visa Subclasses

  • Business Innovation and Investment (permanent) visa (subclass 888)
  • Business Innovation and Investment (provisional) visa (subclass 188)
  • Business Owner (subclass 890)
  • Global Talent visa (subclass 858)
  • Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
  • Investor visa (subclass 891)
  • Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191)
  • Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187)
  • Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494)
  • Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
  • Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
  • Skilled-Recognised Graduate visa (subclass 476)
  • Skilled Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 489)
  • Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887)
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
  • State or Territory Sponsored Business Owner visa (subclass 892)
  • State or Territory Sponsored Investor visa (subclass 893)
  • Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408)
  • Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
  • Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403)
  • Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400)
  • Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)