Exploring Skilled Visa Options for Australia: Subclass 190 and 491

Are you seeking a pathway to both personal and professional growth in Australia? If your skills are your forte, then you might be in luck with two highly sought-after skilled visa options: the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491).

These visas provide opportunities for permanent or provisional residency in Australia, tailoring to your individual circumstances and aspirations.

Let’s delve into the key features, prerequisites, and application procedures for these visas.

Australia Skilled Visa Options

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa presents a permanent residency avenue for skilled workers boasting a points-based assessment and a nomination from an Australian State or Territory government. This visa confers a range of privileges:

• Permanent Residency: The visa grants permanent residency status in Australia.
• Work and Study: Visa holders are free to work and study within the country.
• Travel Flexibility: The visa allows multiple travels to and from Australia over a five-year period.
• Sponsorship: Eligible relatives can be sponsored for permanent residency.
• Citizenship: If eligible, visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Subclass 190 visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• Occupation: Possess an occupation listed in the relevant Australia skilled occupation list.
• Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive assessment from the relevant assessing authority confirming your skills.
• Age: Be under 45 years of age.
• Points Test: Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the points test.
• English Proficiency: Demonstrate at least competent English proficiency (or equivalent).
• Nomination: Secure nomination from a State or Territory government.
• Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect.
• Invitation: Receive an invitation issued by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Health and Character: Meet health and character requirements.

Application Process

The application process for the Subclass 190 visa involves several steps:

1. Eligibility Check: Assess your eligibility and points score.
2. Skill Assessment: Obtain a skills assessment and English test result if necessary.
3. Nomination Research: Research the State or Territory nomination requirements and availability.
4. EOI Submission: Submit an EOI through SkillSelect.
5. Invitation: Await an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.
6. Online Application: Apply for the visa online within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
7. Documentation: Provide necessary supporting documents and make the required payment.
8. Decision Awaited: Wait for the visa application decision.

Processing Time

The processing time varies, with the current average being 9 to 12 months for 75% of applications.

Visa Fee

The visa fee for the main applicant is AUD 4,115, with additional charges for dependents and biometrics.

Must Read: Australia Visa Processing Time in 2023: A Complete Guide

Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491), colloquially known as the 491 visa Australia, is a provisional visa designed for skilled workers. It requires either nomination by an Australian State or Territory government or sponsorship by an eligible relative residing in a designated regional area of Australia. The visa offers the following benefits:

• Stay Duration: Visa holders can stay in Australia for 5 years.
• Regional Lifestyle: The visa allows living, working, and studying within a designated regional area.
• Travel Flexibility: Multiple travels to and from Australia are permitted during the visa’s validity.
• Pathway to PR: After at least 3 years of regional living, working, and studying, visa holders can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Subclass 491 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Occupation: Have an occupation listed on the relevant Australia skilled occupation list.
• Skills Assessment: Receive a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
• Age: Be under 45 years of age.
• Points Test: Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the points test.
• English Proficiency: Demonstrate at least competent English proficiency (or equivalent).
• Nomination/Sponsorship: Secure either nomination from a State or Territory government or sponsorship from an eligible relative in a designated regional area.
• EOI Submission: Submit an EOI via SkillSelect.
• Invitation: Receive an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.
• Health and Character: Fulfill health and character requirements.

Application Process

The application process for the Subclass 491 visa is akin to the Subclass 190 visa, with the additional step of obtaining nomination or sponsorship:

1. Eligibility Check: Assess your eligibility and points score.
2. Skill Assessment: Obtain a skills assessment and English test result if required.
3. Nomination/Sponsorship: Secure nomination or sponsorship from a State, Territory, or eligible relative.
4. EOI Submission: Submit an EOI through SkillSelect.
5. Invitation: Await an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.
6. Online Application: Apply online within 60 days of invitation.
7. Documentation: Provide necessary documents and make the requisite payment.
8. Decision Awaits: Await the visa application decision.

Processing Time

Similar to the Subclass 190 visa, the processing time varies, with the current average being 9 to 12 months for 75% of applications.

Visa Fee

The visa fee for the main applicant is AUD 4,115, accompanied by additional charges for dependents and biometrics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Australia’s skilled visa options, Subclass 190 and Subclass 491, offer avenues for skilled workers to not only contribute to the country’s workforce but also establish their lives in a new and vibrant setting. With diverse benefits and opportunities, these visas pave the way for individuals seeking a fresh chapter in the Land Down Under.