Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass-491)

Ranked among the top four countries for the best destination for immigrants, Australia certainly lives up to the reputation of being the most welcoming country by offering a myriad of prospects for career and academic enthusiasts. Migrants have been a large contributor to Australia’s economy and have shaped its standing at the global front. The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is a provisional points-vested visa for interested migrants who have an interest in either state or Territory government regional nomination or have a family member in regional Australian who can sponsor them. You must score the passing marks (65) on the point test to be eligible for this visa.

Key highlights 

• You can lodge a valid visa application even if you are not in Australia.
• This visa permits you to study and work in Australia.
• This is a provisional visa that permits your stay in Australia for a maximum of 5 years and after 3 years, you may be eligible to meet the requirements for a permanent Subclass 191 Visa.

Eligibility Requirements 

• The applicants must have the age under 45 years.
• You must have a skillful occupation on the relevant skilled occupational list.
• You must show your proficiency in English.
• The applicants need to obtain the minimum score on the Points Test at the time of applying for the visa.
• You need to have an invitation to apply for the visa. To get the invitation, you need to submit an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect while also meeting the required points test on a competitive basis is also an important factor.
• The applicant is required to meet health and character requirements.
• The applicant needs to satisfy certain Public interest criteria and Special Return criteria.
• The applicants need to be nominated by an Australian State or Territory agency and sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated area.