Live and Work in Regional Australia

Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa – Subclass 491 is a points-tested, temporary visa designed for skilled workers who wish to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. It offers a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting specific criteria.

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    Key Eligibility Criteria

    To qualify for the Subclass 189 visa, you must:

    • Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
    • Have a nominated occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
    • Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
    • Demonstrate at least Competent English proficiency.
    • Score at least 65 points on the points test.
    • Be nominated by a state or territory government agency or sponsored by an eligible relative residing in a designated regional area.
    • Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation to apply.
    • Meet health and character requirements.

    Each state or territory may have additional nomination requirements.

    Application Process

    • Check your occupation : Ensure your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list.
    • Obtain a skills assessment: Get a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
    • Take an English language test: Demonstrate at least Competent English proficiency.
    • Calculate your points: Ensure you score at least 65 points on the points test.
    • Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge your EOI through SkillSelect.
    • Apply for state or territory nomination or obtain family sponsorship: Apply for nomination from your chosen state or territory, or obtain sponsorship from an eligible relative.
    • Wait for an invitation: If nominated or sponsored, you may receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
    • Apply for the visa: Submit your visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.

    Costs

    • Primary applicant: AUD $4,770
    • Additional applicant over 18 years AUD $2,385
    • Additional applicant under 18 years AUD $1,190

    Note: Additional fees may apply, such as for health examinations, police certificates, and biometrics. An extra charge of AUD $4,890 may apply for applicants aged 18 or older with less than functional English.

    State and Territory Nomination

    Each Australian state and territory has its own nomination criteria and occupation lists. For example:

    • Victoria
      Applicants must submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) and commit to living and working in regional Victoria.
    • New South Wales:
      Applicants must have a valid skills assessment for an occupation on the NSW Skills List and meet residency requirements.

    Note: Requirements vary by state and territory.

    Additional Tips

    • Higher points increase chances: While 65 points is the minimum, higher scores improve your chances of receiving an invitation.
    • Include eligible family members: You can include your spouse or partner, dependent children, and other dependent relatives in your application.
    • Stay informed: Keep up to date with any changes to the Skilled Occupation List and visa requirements.

    For more detailed information and to start your application, visit the official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.

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