- The Subclass 491 Visa is a temporary visa that permits skilled workers to settle and work in Australia’s regional areas. The visa enables skilled people and their families to reside in Australia for a maximum period of 5 years, while contributing to regional economy. Visa holders who have lived and worked for three years in a regional area may become eligible for permanent residency via the Subclass 191 visa application, which is one of the steps through which they can transition to permanent residency.
Key Features
1.Stay in Australia for a maximum period of five years.
2.Exclusively live, study, and work in specified regional areas.
3.After fulfilling residency and income requirements, get a permanent residency visa.
4.The application can include family members who meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the subclass 491 visa, applicants must:
1.Supported by a government of Australian state or territory or by a relative who lives in a regional area and is eligible for sponsorship.
2.Must have an occupation included in the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
3.Must undergo and pass a skills assessment for the occupation chosen.
4.Must achieve a score of 65 points or more in the points test.
5.Must be no more than 45 years old at the time of invitation.
6.Must prove having at least a competent level of English proficiency (for instance, IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL).
7.Must comply with the health and character requirements as determined by the Australian authorities.
Benefits of Subclass 491 visa
1.Fewer restrictions for work and living in the regional part of Australia.
2.Extra points for regional nomination or family sponsorship.
3.A clear path toward Australian permanent residency.
4.Living in high standard with community benefits and local opportunities.
Permanent Residency Pathway
You may apply for Subclass 191 Permanent Residence Visa (Skilled Regional) after being on Subclass 491 visa for minimum of three years and meeting the income threshold.