Subclass 491: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa is designed for skilled individuals nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative to live, work, and study in regional Australia. This provisional visa provides a pathway to permanent residency after meeting specific conditions.
Key Features of Subclass 491 Visa
- Duration: Stay in Australia for up to 5 years.
- Work and Study: Live, work, and study in designated regional areas.
- Travel: Unlimited travel to and from Australia while the visa is valid.
- Permanent Residency Pathway: Apply for a permanent residence visa (Subclass 191) after 3 years if eligibility criteria are met.
Basic Eligibility
To qualify for this visa, you must:
- Be Nominated or Sponsored:
- Nominated by a state or territory government agency, or
- Sponsored by an eligible relative residing in a regional area.
- Have a Relevant Skilled Occupation: Your occupation must be listed on a relevant skilled occupation list.
- Skills Assessment: Obtain a suitable skills assessment for your occupation.
- Points Test: Meet the minimum points requirement.
- Invitation to Apply: Receive an invitation to submit your visa application.
COVID-19 Visa Extensions
Certain Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa holders received a 3-year extension on 18 February 2022 to compensate for disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This extension supports affected visa holders in meeting their residency and employment obligations.
Costs
- Main Applicant: From AUD4,770.
- Subsequent Entrant (Family Member): From AUD4,770.
Additional charges may apply for health checks, biometrics, or secondary applicants with less than functional English.
Processing Times
Processing times can vary depending on:
- The completeness of your application.
- Your responsiveness to requests for additional information.
- The time required for health, character, and security checks.
For an estimate, use the visa processing time guide tool provided by the Department of Home Affairs.
Subclass 491 Subsequent Entrant
Family members of Subclass 491 visa holders can apply as subsequent entrants to join them in Australia.
- Eligibility: Must be a member of the family unit of a Subclass 491 visa holder.
- Duration: Valid until the primary visa holder’s visa expires.
Benefits of Subclass 491 Visa
- Regional Opportunities: Access to job opportunities and a supportive environment in designated regional areas.
- Path to PR: Eligible for permanent residency after meeting work and residency requirements for 3 years.
- Family Inclusion: Add family members as subsequent entrants.
How WIDEN Migration Experts Can Assist with Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
At WIDEN, we specialise in guiding skilled professionals through the complexities of Subclass 491 applications. Our migration experts can help by:
- Identifying your eligibility and maximising your points for the visa.
- Ensuring your occupation aligns with regional requirements.
- Preparing and lodging a robust application with all supporting documents.
- Advising on pathways to permanent residency under Subclass 191.
Take the first step toward a successful Subclass 491 application today. Contact WIDEN Migration Experts for personalised support.