Skilled Work Regional Provisional subclass 491

The new 491 visa, Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) subclass 491 visa will enable eligible skilled workers and their families to live, work and study in designated regional areas of Australia for 5 years.

Who is eligible to apply?

The main criteria is as follows:

  • Be able to score at least 65 points
  • Be nominated by a state or territory agency or be sponsored by an eligible relative
  • Receive an invitation from Department of Home Affairs to apply for a subclass 491 visa
  • The main applicant is required to be under 45 years
  • Hold a skills assessment in an occupation on the skilled occupation list (to be announced)
  • Have competent English
  • Meet health and character criteria

The regional 491 visa will have 504 occupations (77 more than the closest non-regional equivalent visa). The applicants for this visa will also have access to additional points for regional nomination/sponsorship.

This visa will replace the existing subclass 489 visa which will close for new applications on 15 November 2019. The last day to lodge and expression of interest for subclass 489 visa and be invited is 10 September 2019. If you were planning to apply for a subclass 489 visa and are unsure of how the changes will impact you, we recommend you book a consultation with us to determine the next steps.

What does this visa let you do?

This visa enables eligible skilled workers and their families to live, work and study in designated regional areas for a period of up to five years. Visa holders will have access to permanent residency in three years if the eligibility criteria for the permanent visa is met.

Visa conditions

This visa will be subjected to visa conditions which require the holder and their families to live, work and study in regional Australia.

How can AMES Australia Skilled Migration assist you?

As a part of our service offering, we will assess your eligibility and provide you with detailed advice on your immigration options. If our services are engaged, we will guide you through the entire application process, prepare and lodge your application and monitor it until an outcome is received. As an AMES Skilled Migration client, you will also have access to our Skilled Professional Migrants program skilled professional settlement and career support which will include assistance with resume writing, career counselling and mentoring service. Learn more about these services here.

If you would like advice and assistance on your visa options, please book a consultation by contacting us on 1300 98 70 71.