Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa Subclass 491

The Subclass 491 Visa, also known as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, is designed for skilled professionals who wish to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. This visa supports regional development by addressing local skill shortages while offering a clear pathway to permanent residency.

Whether you’re seeking career growth or the lifestyle benefits of regional Australia, the 491 Visa provides an excellent opportunity for skilled migrants and their families.

Key Features of the 491 Visa

The Subclass 491 Visa offers unique advantages compared to other skilled migration visas:

• Regional Focus: You must live and work in designated regional areas, helping support regional growth.

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Eligible holders can apply for the Subclass 887 Permanent Residency Visa after meeting residency and work conditions.

• Work and Study Rights: Full rights to work and study in a regional area.

• Family Inclusion: Spouses and dependent children can be included in your application.

• Validity: The visa is granted for up to 5 years.

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Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 491 Visa

To qualify for the 491 Visa, applicants must meet specific requirements:

• Skill Assessment: Your skills must be positively assessed in an eligible occupation.

• Nomination or Sponsorship:

  • By a state or territory government, or

  • By an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.

• Age Requirement: You must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.

• Points Test: A minimum of 65 points is required, based on age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.

• English Language Ability: Meet minimum English language standards.

• Health and Character Checks: Mandatory medical exams and police clearances.

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Visa Conditions

Subclass 491 Visa holders must comply with specific conditions:

• Live, work, and study only in designated regional areas.

• Work in your nominated occupation or a closely related field.

• Notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes in your circumstances (residence, job, or family).

• The visa remains valid for 5 years, after which eligible applicants can transition to permanent residency through the Subclass 887 Visa.

Processing Times and Costs

• Processing Time: Typically 6–12 months, depending on application completeness and demand.

• Application Fee: AUD 4,770 for the main applicant.

  • Additional fees apply for family members.

  • Other costs may include medical exams, police checks, and English tests.

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Benefits of Subclass 491 Visa

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Apply for Subclass 887 Visa after meeting 3 years of residency and 2 years of work requirements.

• Opportunity to Contribute: Be part of regional communities and support economic growth.

• Alternative Migration Path: Provides flexibility for skilled workers who may not qualify for Subclass 189 or 190 visas.

• Family Opportunities: Your family members enjoy the same rights to work, study, and live in regional Australia.

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Why Choose Vicpak for Subclass 491 Visa Applications?

At Vicpak, we specialize in simplifying the complexities of the Australian General Skilled Migration program. Our services include:

• Assessing eligibility and points calculation

• Guidance with state/territory nomination or family sponsorship

• Assistance with SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) submissions

• Complete application preparation with accurate documentation

• Ongoing advice on changing migration requirements

With our expertise, you’ll have the confidence of a well-prepared application and the best chance of achieving your migration goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the 491 Visa part of the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program?
Yes. The Subclass 491 is part of the GSM program, aimed at attracting skilled workers to regional areas.

Q2: How can I apply for the Subclass 491 Visa?
You must lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect. If nominated or sponsored, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.

Q3: Can I include my family members?
Yes, you can include eligible family members such as your spouse and dependent children in your application.

Q4: How long is the visa valid?
The Subclass 491 Visa is valid for 5 years, during which you must live and work in a regional area.

This is now fully polished and aligned with your Subclass 189 & 190 service pages for consistency.