Australia - Subclass 491 Visa
A Pathway to Permanent Residency Through Regional Australia
The Subclass 491 Visa is designed for skilled professionals who are willing to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. This is a five-year provisional visa that offers a clear route to permanent residency, provided specific conditions are met. Whether you are sponsored by an eligible family member living in a regional area or nominated by a state or territory government, this visa offers a valuable opportunity for those aiming to settle in Australia for the long run.
Who Should Consider the 491 Visa?
This visa is suitable for applicants who:
Hold a profession that appears on the Skilled Occupation List designated for regional areas in Australia.
Can secure a nomination from a state or territory, OR sponsorship from an eligible relative residing in a regional area.
Are open to living, working, and studying in less densely populated regions of Australia.
Who Should Consider the 491 Visa?
- Live and Work in Regional Australia : You’ll have full work rights and the flexibility to live anywhere within a designated regional area.
- Extra Points Towards Eligibility : Applicants receive 15 additional points under the General Skilled Migration points test when applying for this visa.
- Path to Permanent Residency : After three years of holding the 491 visa and meeting the income and residency requirements, you can apply for the Subclass 191 visa, which leads to permanent residency.
- Access to Healthcare and Education : You and your dependents can access Medicare and public education in line with regional policies.
- Family Inclusion : You can include your partner and dependent children in the same visa application
General Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the 491 Visa, you must:
Must be under 45 years old when you receive the invitation to apply.
Hold a valid positive skills assessment for the occupation you’ve nominated.
Score at least 65 points, including the bonus 15 points for regional nomination or sponsorship.
Demonstrate competent English (minimum IELTS score of 6 in each band or equivalent).
Fulfil the health and character standards required by Australia’s Department of Home Affairs.
Quick Assistance
Application Process
The 491 visa process involves multiple stages:
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Skills Assessment
Get your skills and qualifications verified by the relevant assessing body for your occupation.
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English Language Test
Provide results from an approved English language exam such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
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Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit your EOI via SkillSelect, indicating your interest in state nomination or family sponsorship.
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State Nomination or Family Sponsorship
Apply for state nomination or obtain sponsorship from an eligible relative living in a regional area.
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Invitation to Apply
Once nominated or sponsored, you’ll receive an invitation to lodge your visa application.
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Visa Application
Submit your full application with all required documentation, including police checks, medicals, and proof of relationship if applying with family.
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Visa Outcome
If approved, you will be granted a 491 visa valid for five years.
By meeting these requirements, you can take the first step towards building a future in regional Australia with the 491 Visa.
