Complete Guide on Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) Visa

The Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) Visa will enable all skilled workers and their families to live, pursue education and work in designated regional areas of Australia. This 491 visa is valid for a tenure of 5 years. The visa consultant or migration agent in Melbourne provides detailed information on the visa application process.

The state or regional government will nominate the applicant for this 491 visa, and an eligible family member who is a permanent resident or citizen in Australia can sponsor the applicant.

The 491-visa holder can become eligible to apply for a permanent residence (PR) visa after living for three (3) years in Australia. The migration agent in Melbourne is helping thousands of applicants with 491 visa applications.

Requirements for Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) Visa

• Without a passport, the visa application will be invalid; make sure the applicant has a passport that is up to date so that the applicant can use it for the visa application.
• An applicant must submit all the identification documents like an identity card, birth certificate, driving license, certificates showing the applicant’s name change and so on.
• Submit those certificates that show the applicant’s character, like not being convicted of any crimes and never being under any investigation. Applicant must attach form 80 and form 1221.
• The applicant will submit an English language document to get 491 visas.
• The applicant must submit a skill assessment report at the time of application.
• If the applicant is sponsored, the sponsor must complete the form.
• The applicant has to submit evidence of their sponsor. It can include a family member (if the applicant’s sponsor is a relative), evidence that they have turned 18 or above and evidence that they are an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
• The applicant will submit the expression of interest (EOI) form regarding work experience, qualifications and other responsibilities they had. For visa application, the applicant will submit documents that claim their CV, letter of recommendation (LoR), graduation certificates, awards, etc.
• Those applicants bringing their spouse or de facto partner with them on a 491 visa must submit their spouse documents, copies of language identification, character, proof of relationship, etc.
• Those applicants bringing their minor or adult dependent children with them must provide copies of their identification, birth certificate, parental consent form or statutory declaration. Also, submit proof of dependency along with form 47a.
• Submit forms 956 and 956a for assistance documents.

What are the Required Documents for a 491 Visa?

• The applicant will provide all the required documents for the information in the expression of interest (EOI).
  • Passport
  • Police clearance certificate (PCC)
  • Marriage certificate
  • Language competency report
• Required documents for applicants between the ages of 18-23.
  • Passport
  • Evidence for financial dependency
  • Birth certificate
  • Adoption papers (specific case)
  • Applicants above 23 still depend on their parents because of some physical impairment or cognitive issues
• The applicant will provide the following documents associated with their claims on EOI.
  • Skill Assessment
  • Language Assessment
  • Education Qualification (as per Australian standards)
  • Skilled Australian employment
  • Specialist education
  • Study in regional Australia
  • Work experience in Australia
  • Partner skills
• If applicants have a sponsor, they provide the following information.
  • Age proof (18 years and above)
  • Proof of being an eligible relative
  • Declaration by applicant sponsor
  • Permanent residency proof

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants for a 491 visa must be nominated by the following.

• Government agency of an Australian state or territory
• Applicant must be 45 years old
• Applicant must have a qualifying occupation on the Australian in-demand occupation list (MLTSSL)
• Have proof of English proficiency
• Have skill assessment of nominated occupation (accreditation)
• The applicant must obtain a minimum of 65 points in the eligible test at the time of invitation
• Applicant must meet the medical and character requirements

Conclusion

The process for applying for a 491 visa is quite complicated, and applicants take advice and consultation before applying. Suppose the applicant is applying on his or her own. In that case, the process may take time, and the officer might reject the visa applications. To avoid this kind of situation, many people contact a study visa consultant in Chandigarh (If they are in India) and clear their doubts. The Asia Pacific Group’s registered MARA agents have more than 12 years of experience in migration services and helped thousands of applicants migrate to Australia. The MARA agents are here to assist in the process of 491 visa applications, or can visit the website Asia Pacific Group and clear all the doubts.