The Complete Guide to the 491 Visa: What You Need to Know

There are several choices and paperwork to complete before departing on a foreign trip, particularly for employment or residency. Australia’s Subclass 491 visa stands out among the options offered as a hopeful sign for people who wish to live, work, and travel around this large country. This article seeks to clarify the intricacies involved in obtaining a working visa in Australia, so that you can be ready for the procedure.

What is the 491 Visa Australia?

For a period of five years, qualifying skilled workers and their families may reside, work, and study in specific regional areas of Australia under the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) subclass 491 visa. After three years, holders of valid visas can apply for a visa for permanent residence. It is necessary for applicants to be nominated by:

• A state or territory government organization in Australia, or
• Sponsored by a family member who qualifies and lives in a specified geographical area; after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, the applicant will be encouraged to apply for the visa.

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491 Visa Occupation List

The following list of jobs is relevant to the subclass 491 visa for Regional Skilled Work (Provisional):

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491 Visa Requirements

To be eligible for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) for Australia, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Nomination or Sponsorship: Either be sponsored by a qualified relative who resides in a designated regional area, or be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency.
2. Occupation: Possess a job that is listed among the necessary skilled occupations.
3. Skills Assessment: Obtain a suitable skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
4. English Proficiency: Demonstrate competent English language skills.
5. Points Test: Achieve at least 65 points on the points test.
6. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect and be invited to apply.
7. Character and Health: Meet health and character requirements.
8. Genuine Intention: Demonstrate a genuine intention to live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia.

491 Visa Fees

Fees for a 491 visa could include the following two categories:

• There is an application fee of AUD 4,115.
• An additional payment of AUD4,890 is required for family members who do not meet the language requirement.

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491 Visa Processing Time

Visa 491 processing might take anywhere between 11 and 14 months to complete. Whether you have provided all necessary materials and whether you respond to the Department’s inquiries (if any) will determine how long it takes to consider your application.

How to Get PR After 491 Visa

To get permanent residency (PR) after holding a 491 visa in Australia, you need to meet specific criteria and apply for the Skilled Regional (Permanent) visa (subclass 191). Here are the key steps:

1. Eligibility: Hold a 491 visa for at least 3 years.
2. Income: Demonstrate a taxable income at or above a specific threshold (set by the Australian government) for at least 3 years.
3. Residency: Live and work in a designated regional area of Australia for 3 years.
4. Application: Submit an application for the 191 visa, providing evidence of meeting the above criteria.

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Conclusion

One must fulfil all paperwork requirements and other formalities in order to get a Visa Subclass 491. With this visa, the applicant will be authorised to live, work, and study in Australia for a maximum of five years under specific criteria in areas of the country that have been defined. If qualified, one may also apply for Visa Subclass 191 for permanent residence. The applicant and any members of their family must abide by all applicable territorial laws and visa requirements. You can speak with our MARA Registered Immigration Agent Perth if you wish to apply for a 491 visa or any other type of visa.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

How long does it take to get an invitation for a 491 visa?

The time it takes to get an invitation for a 491 visa can vary widely. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on factors like the occupation, the state or territory’s nomination process, and the number of available spots.

How to add a newborn baby to the 491 visa?

To add a newborn baby to a 491 visa, notify the Department of Home Affairs about the birth and provide a copy of the baby’s birth certificate and passport. Complete and submit Form 1436 (Adding an Additional Applicant) along with the required documents. Ensure the baby undergoes any necessary health examinations, then lodge the completed form and documents to the Department of Home Affairs. 

What if I separate from my partner on a 491 visa?

If you separate from your partner while on a 491 visa, you must notify the Department of Home Affairs about the change in your relationship status. This may affect your visa conditions, especially if your visa was dependent on your partner’s application. 

What is the difference between 190 and 491 visa?

The main difference between the 491 and 190 visas in Australia is how you are nominated to apply.

• 491 Visa: Requires nomination by a state or territory government agency or sponsorship by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
• 190 Visa: Requires nomination by a state or territory government agency based on skills in demand in that particular state or territory.