The Australia 491 visa, also known as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, is a temporary visa that allows skilled workers and their families to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia ¹ ² ³ ⁴. This visa is designed to address skill shortages in regional Australia and provide a pathway to permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Australia 491 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Be between 18 and 45 years old
- Skills: Hold a positive skill assessment for an occupation on the State or Regional List
- English Language: Have competent English language skills, with a minimum score of 6 in IELTS or hold a valid passport
- Nomination: Receive a nomination from a Region or State to apply for the visa
- Health and Character: Meet the required health and character standards
- Points Test: Meet the pass mark in the skilled migration points test, currently 65 points
Application Process
The application process for the Australia 491 visa involves the following steps:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria
- Submit an EOI: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
- Receive Regional Nomination: Receive a nomination from a Region or State
- Apply for Visa: Apply for the visa within 60 days of receiving the nomination
Benefits and Pathway to Permanent Residency
The Australia 491 visa offers several benefits, including:
- Live and work in regional Australia: Enjoy the opportunity to live and work in regional Australia for up to five years
- Pathway to permanent residency: May lead to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa
- Include family members: Can include family members in the application
Conclusion
The Australia 491 visa provides a valuable opportunity for skilled workers to contribute to regional Australia and build a new life. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process, applicants can take the first step towards a rewarding career and a permanent future in Australia.
To Apply for this visa, please check the Australian official website by CLICKING HERE