22 Feb Skilled work regional subclass 491 VISA
Like the existing 489 visas, applicants must be nominated by a State or Territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in regional Australia.
Applicants will need to meet minimum points score to apply, however, more points will become available from 16 November 2019. You can read about the changes to the points test here.
You must also meet the character and health requirements.
The 489 vs 491 – A look into the main changes
From 16 November 2019, you will no longer be able to apply for the 489 visas. The subclass 491 will replace current Skilled Regional (Provisional) subclass 489 visas.
491 visa holders must live and work in regional Australia for three years before applying for permanent residency under the 191 visa category. (Previously 2 years under the 489 visa). The visa validity period will increase from four years to five years to allow applicants more time to meet this requirement.
This visa will be accessible for more people; with over 500 new occupations eligible under the new 491 visa. Moreover, the definition of regional Australia will be simplified and broadened to include all areas of Australia except the metropolitan areas of; Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. The notable changes here are that Newcastle, Wollongong and the NSW Central Coast will be classified as regional.
To help meet the demand in regional Australia, 491 visa applicants will receive priority processing. You can check current global visa processing times on The Department of Home Affairs website.
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