Australia Eases Criteria for Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

Great news for skilled migrants in Australia! The New South Wales (NSW) government is making it easier for you to secure permanent residency if you’re living and working in regional areas. They’ve just announced changes to the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) under Pathway 1, making it more accessible.

Enhanced Accessibility for Skilled Workers

This adjustment seeks to make the pathway more accessible to skilled workers currently residing and working in regional areas of Australia, particularly in NSW. The changes aim to streamline the visa application process, offering increased opportunities for those contributing to regional economies.

Updated Nomination Criteria for Pathway 1

Previously, applicants for Pathway 1 had to meet stringent requirements, including a mandatory 12-month period of living and working in a designated regional area of Australia, with a single regional employer.

However, based on valuable feedback received during the Regional Skilled Migration seminars, the Australian government has decided to reduce this employment duration requirement to just 6 months.

Also Read: Visa Changes: Australia Considers Blacklisting Entire Countries for Visas

Key Changes Simplified

Reduced employment duration: Applicants must now demonstrate six months of continuous residence and employment in a designated regional area of Australia, particularly in NSW.

This amendment aims to broaden eligibility, granting access to skilled workers who have been actively contributing to regional economies for six months.

What else do you need to know?

The other eligibility criteria for Pathway 1 remain the same across Australia. You’ll still need to:

• Work in a skilled occupation on a relevant state or territory list.
• Employment must be with a single regional NSW-based employer, operating from established business premises within regional Australia.
• The applicant’s role must align with their nominated occupation or a closely related one, deemed skilled by the Australian government.
• Applicants must receive a minimum salary of $70,000 (prorated if working under 38 hours per week) from their qualifying employer in the six months preceding their application.
• Have your skills assessed and listed on your SkillSelect EOI.
• Be currently live in regional Australia.
• Apply for your visa onshore and do not have a pending permanent visa application.

Important Reminders

Skilled employment should occur post-Australia’s acknowledgement of the applicant’s skill in their occupation, as reflected in their SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI).

Visa applications must be lodged onshore, and applicants should not have a pending application for a permanent visa under consideration by the Department of Home Affairs.

Also Read: New Visa Regulations in Australia: Implications for Foreign Students and Expats

For More Information

For further details regarding the updated criteria and the application process, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the Australian government website.

Conclsuion

By easing the pathway for skilled workers, the Australian Government aims to attract and retain talent vital for the continued growth and prosperity of regional communities, with a particular focus on fostering development in NSW.

This move underscores the commitment to fostering a thriving regional economy while providing opportunities for skilled professionals to contribute meaningfully to local development initiatives.