Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) allows skilled professionals to live and work in regional Australia for up to five years, with a pathway to permanent residency. This visa offers a fantastic opportunity for those looking to contribute to Australia’s regional workforce.

At CIA Lawyers, we’re here to simplify the process and help you succeed in your application.

Costs & Details of the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) comes with various costs and requirements. Here’s a simple breakdown for you:

Cost	Details
Base Visa Application Fee	From AUD 4,770 (first instalment).
Additional Family Member Costs	Extra charges apply for each family member included in the application.
Second Instalment	Payable when requested by the Department of Home Affairs before final visa approval.
Other Costs	Additional fees may apply for health checks, police certificates, and biometrics.

Payment Breakdown:

First Instalment: Pay when submitting your application.
Second Instalment: Pay closer to the visa decision date when requested.

Important Details:

Location Requirement: You and any family members included in your application must be in Australia (but not in immigration clearance) when applying and when a decision is made.
Processing Times: Processing times can vary, with some applications taking several months. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest details.

For the most accurate cost breakdown and updates, always check the Department of Home Affairs. Proper planning will help streamline your application process!

Benefits of the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) offers several advantages for skilled professionals looking to settle in Australia’s regional areas.

Let’s take a closer look at how this visa can benefit you:

Work and Study in Regional Areas: With this visa, you can live, work, and study in regional Australia for up to five years. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience different parts of Australia, all while advancing your career in a thriving workforce.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Subclass 491 visa is your gateway to permanent residency in Australia. After holding the visa for three years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency under the Skilled Regional (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 191), bringing long-term security and stability for you and your family.
Family Sponsorship: This visa allows you to include your family members in your application. If approved, they can join you in Australia, work, study, and enjoy all the benefits that come with living in this beautiful country.
Access to Medicare: As a Subclass 491 visa holder, you’ll be eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system. This means you’ll have access to essential healthcare services at little or no cost, giving you peace of mind when it comes to medical needs.
Opportunities in Regional Areas: Living and working in regional Australia can be a fantastic opportunity. The job market in these areas is often less competitive, increasing your chances of finding a stable job.

This visa not only opens doors to a fulfilling life in Australia but also provides a clear pathway to permanent residency, making it an attractive option for skilled professionals.

Eligibility Criteria for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

To successfully apply for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491), you’ll need to meet several important eligibility requirements. Let’s break down what you need to qualify for this visa:

Age Requirement: You must be under 45 years of age at the time of your application. This age limit ensures that you are within the working age bracket and can contribute to the regional workforce in Australia.
Skills and Qualifications: You must have a valid skills assessment for a position on Australia’s skilled occupation list. This means you need to demonstrate that your qualifications and work experience meet the requirements for a specific occupation in demand in regional areas.
English Language Proficiency: To apply, you must prove your proficiency in English by meeting the required score in a recognised English test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
Sponsorship or Nomination: You must be sponsored by an eligible family member or nominated by a State or Territory government. The sponsorship or nomination ensures that you will live and work in a regional area of Australia.
Points Test: You must pass the points test, which awards points for factors like age, English language skills, education, and work experience. You need a minimum score of 65 points to be eligible to apply for the visa.
Health and Character Requirements: You and any family members included in your application must meet Australian health and character standards. This involves undergoing health examinations and providing police checks to ensure you don’t have any significant criminal history.
Commitment to Regional Australia: You must be willing to live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia for the duration of your visa. This ensures that you contribute to the growth and development of regional communities.

Meeting these eligibility criteria is crucial for a successful application. If you’re unsure about any of the requirements or need assistance, seeking advice from an immigration lawyer can help you navigate the process and ensure everything is in order.

How CIA Lawyers Will Help You Get the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

At CIA Lawyers, we understand how crucial it is to secure your future in Australia, and we’re dedicated to making the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) process as simple and stress-free as possible.

Personalised Application Assistance: Our team will assist you in gathering all the necessary documents and ensuring your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time. We’ll make sure every detail is in order, so you won’t have to worry about missing anything.
Expert Immigration Advice: With extensive experience in Australian immigration law, our experts will provide clear, tailored advice to suit your specific circumstances. Whether you need help with your skills assessment, English proficiency, or sponsorship..
Ongoing Support: The process of applying for the Subclass 491 visa can be complex, but we’ll be with you every step of the way. From helping you understand eligibility requirements to keeping you informed about your application’s progress.

Let CIA Lawyers make the visa process easier for you, so you can start your journey in regional Australia without the stress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I move to another state after receiving the 491 visa?

A: While you can move to another state, your visa conditions may require you to live and work in the nominated regional area. It’s important to comply with these conditions to avoid complications.

Q: How do I apply for the Subclass 491 visa?

A: To apply, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. You must score at least 65 points, and once invited, you can apply with the necessary documentation like skills assessments.

Q: Is there a pathway to permanent residency from the Subclass 491 visa?

A: Yes, after holding the Subclass 491 visa for three years, you may apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa if you meet specific work and residency conditions.

Q: What happens if my Expression of Interest (EOI) is not selected?

A: If your EOI isn’t selected, you’ll need to wait for a future invitation. You may increase your chances by improving your points score or adjusting your nominated occupation.

Our Process

1. Consultation

Connect with a qualified solicitor to discuss your immigration needs and determine the best strategy for securing your visa under Australian immigration law.

2. Application

Our legal consultants will guide you through the preparation of all required documentation, including any necessary written or oral submissions.

3. Approval

We stand by your side throughout the entire process, advocating on your behalf and supporting you until your visa application is successfully approved.