The 491 Visa, Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa, is a temporary visa designed to address skill shortages within regional Australia while providing a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers from overseas. This visa allows holders to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years.

About 491 Visa

The key features of the 491 Visa are:

• Duration: Up to five years.

• 491 Visa Eligibility: Must be invited to apply and meet specific criteria.

• 491 Visa Benefits: Allows visa holders to live, work, and study in Australia, include immediate family members in the application, and potentially transition to permanent residency.

491 Visa Application Process and Requirements

491 Visa application process and 491 Visa requirements are:

1. Expression of Interest (EOI)

Prospective applicants must submit an EOI through SkillSelect, indicating their interest and demonstrating that they meet the criteria.

2. Nomination or Sponsorship

Applicants must either:

• Be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency, or

• Be sponsored by an eligible relative residing in a designated regional area.

3. Score a Minimum of 65 Points

Applicants are required to score at least 65 points on the points test, which assesses factors like age, English proficiency, and skilled employment.

4. Age Limit

Applicants must be under 45 years of age when invited to apply.

5. Skill Assessment

A positive skill assessment in the nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority is mandatory unless exemptions apply.

6. English Proficiency

Competent English is a prerequisite, though additional points are awarded for higher proficiency levels.

7. Health and Character

Applicants and any family members must meet health and character requirements.

491 Visa Application Processing Timelines

491 Visa Processing times in 2023 are:

• State/Territory Government Nominated Regional:

  • 75% processed within 58 days

  • 90% processed within 76 days

• Family Sponsored Regional:

  • 75% processed within 57 days

  • 90% processed within 71 days

491 Visa- Including Family Members

For 491 Visa, you can include the following family members

Partners

• Must prove a genuine and continuing relationship.

• Must live together or not live separately on a permanent basis.

• Must meet age and relationship criteria.

Children

• Must be a dependent child or stepchild.

• Must meet age and dependency criteria.

All family members must meet health and character requirements.

491 Visa Fees

491 Visa cost is

• Primary Applicant: A$4640

• Additional Applicant (18 years and above): A$2320

• Additional Applicant (below 18 years): A$1160

• Second Instalment (if applicable): A$4885

491 Visa- Subsequent Temporary Application Charge

This charge is not applicable for onshore Subclass 491 visa applications.

Conclusion

The 491 Visa offers skilled workers an opportunity to contribute to regional Australia while enjoying the benefits of living in these areas. It is crucial for applicants to thoroughly understand the requirements of 491 visa and processes involved to enhance the likelihood of a successful application. Always consider seeking professional advice to navigate through the complexities of the 491 visa application process.