Visa 491
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
A points-tested visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia. This is a provisional visa valid for 5 years that can lead to permanent residence.
Overview
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is a points-tested visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government, or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area. This provisional visa allows you to live, work and study in regional Australia for up to five years, with an initial commitment to remain in the designated regional area.
Visa Benefits
Includes your partner and dependent children in the application
Access Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system
Pathway to permanent residence through subclass 191 after meeting residency requirements
Higher points available in the points test (additional 15 points for state nomination)
Work in your nominated occupation or any occupation in regional Australia
Access certain social security benefits after a waiting period
Eligibility Requirements
- Be nominated by an Australian state or territory government, or be sponsored by an eligible family member residing in designated regional Australia
- Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Have a suitable skills assessment for your nominated occupation
- Be invited to apply
- Meet the points test (minimum 65 points)
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
- Have competent English
- Meet health and character requirements
Application Process
Check state/territory nomination requirements
Submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect
Submit a Registration of Interest for relevant state
If successful, invited to apply for state nomination
Receive invitation to apply for visa within 60 days
Visa approval!
Costs & Fees
- Main applicant: $6,140
- Additional applicant over 18: $3,070
- Additional applicant under 18: $1,535
Processing Times
50% of applications: 12 months
90% of applications: 18 months
Restrictions & Conditions
- Must commit to living in nominating state for at least 2 years
- Cannot change states immediately after visa grant
Additional Information
Each state and territory has its own occupation lists and nomination criteria. Some states offer priority processing for certain occupations. Research each state's requirements carefully before applying.
Official Information
For the most current and official information about this visa, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
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