The Subclass 491 Visa is a temporary visa that permits skilled workers to settle and work in Australia’s regional areas. The visa enables skilled people and their families to reside in Australia for a maximum period of 5 years, while contributing to regional economy. Visa holders who have lived and worked for three years in a regional area may become eligible for permanent residency via the Subclass 191 visa application, which is one of the steps through which they can transition to permanent residency.
Key Features
- Stay in Australia for a maximum period of five years.
- Exclusively live, study, and work in specified regional areas.
- After fulfilling residency and income requirements, get a permanent residency visa.
- The application can include family members who meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the subclass 491 visa, applicants must:
- Supported by the government of an Australian state or territory, or by a relative who lives in a regional area and is eligible for sponsorship.
- Must have an occupation included in the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
- Must undergo and pass a skills assessment for the occupation chosen.
- Must achieve a score of 65 points or more in the points test.
- Must be no more than 45 years old at the time of invitation.
- Must prove having at least a competent level of English proficiency (for instance, IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL).
- Must comply with the health and character requirements as determined by the Australian authorities.
Check Your Eligibility
Benefits of the Subclass 491 visa
- Fewer restrictions for work and living in the regional part of Australia.
- Extra points for regional nomination or family sponsorship.
- A clear path toward Australian permanent residency.
- Living in high standard with community benefits and local opportunities.
Permanent Residency Pathway
You may apply for a Subclass 191 Permanent Residence Visa (Skilled Regional) after being on a Subclass 491 visa for a minimum of three years and meeting the income threshold.
