Benefits of the Subclass 491 Visa for Skilled Migrants in Australia

Did you know that Australia has thousands of unfilled jobs each year simply because of a shortage of required skills? The contributing factors to such adequacies include an ageing population and a rapidly growing economy. 

The Australian government has implemented several programs, including the 491 visas, to entice skilled migrants to fill these gaps in skills shortages. In this blog post, we will outline the benefits for skilled workers and the procedures to obtain the 491 visa. So, let’s get started. 

What is a Subclass 491 Visa?

The provisional visa 491 Visa Centrelink Benefits legislation is designed for skilled professionals willing to work and live in regional Australia. This visa is valid for 5 years, and the holder can travel to and from the country without restriction as long as the visa is valid. The holder can even apply for permanent residence after 3 years from when this visa is granted. 

Benefits of a 491 Visa

Contrary to popular belief, applying for visa 491 is not only better for the applicant’s career and lifestyle but offers several advantages to the migrants. The 491 visa benefits for skilled workers seeking to live and work in regional Australia are elucidated below:

1. Route to Permanent Residency: You can apply for permanent residency after living and working in a designated regional area for three years through a subclass 191 visa.
2. Regional Opportunities: Applicants can live a unique regional Australian lifestyle, which is generally lower in population density and has a strong sense of community.
3. Gain 15 Extra Points: These extra 15 points significantly enhance the applicant’s chances of success by allowing them to live and work in a designated regional area in Australia. These points essentially incentivise skilled workers to call the county their home. 
4. Flexibility of Travel: Freedom to travel into and out of Australia multiple times during the validity of the five-year visa.
5. Access to Healthcare: Applicants get to enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public health insurance system, which gives them access to concessional subsidised healthcare services.
6. Subsidised Education: Lower education costs in regional areas might be possible.
7. Priority Processing: The 491 visa is normally processed quickly, so the waiting time can also be shorter. Use the visa processing time guide tool to estimate the waiting time.
8. Family Benefits: Move your spouse and children to Australia and enjoy the 491 visa Centrelink benefits of a high standard of living.
9. Career Advancement: There is a potential opportunity for work experience in regional Australia, and good career opportunities may open there.

How to Acquire a Visa 491?

In general, you must go through the following procedure to get the 491 visa.

1. Skill Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment of your occupation through a designated assessing authority. It ensures that your skills and qualifications align with the requirements for the occupation. In most professions, you might also need to take a mandatory registration test to prove your competence and skill set. That being said, submitting accurate documents to the authorities is encouraged. 
2. Occupation: The applicant must be on the relevant skilled occupation list. As the list is frequently updated, it is essential to check it out under the guidance of a visa consultant Adelaide before application.
3. Points Test: Score at least 65 points or more in the points test against the criteria that comprise age, qualifications, work experience and proficiency in the English language. 
4. Nomination or Sponsorship: To be eligible for the Subclass 491 visa, a state or territory government agency in Australia must nominate you. Alternatively, it would help if you found an eligible relative who is either a permanent resident, an Australian citizen, or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
5. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Before the application, open a profile on SkillSelect, providing information on your skills, experience, and qualifications. If you find the procedure complex, a Migration Agent can help you. If you score enough points, the EOI will be considered by the state and territory governments or eligible sponsors.
6. Invitation to Apply: Once the thorough vetting process is conducted, you will receive an invitation to apply for the 491 visa Australia.
7. Visa Application: The visa application is then lodged along with all the supporting documents, which include your passport, police clearance certificates, medical examinations, and proof of funds.
8. Visa Award: Finally, if your application is successful, you will be granted this 491 visa to live, work, and study in specific regional areas of Australia for up to five years.

Read More: Why Visa Subclass 491 Might Be the Right Choice for You

Parting Thoughts

The 491 visa provides a great opportunity for a working professional to live and build a career in Australia. Adding to the pathway to permanent residency, flexible travel options, and quality healthcare and education, it is a well-rounded package for those keen to live in this continent. To make this a reality, contact a migration agent in Adelaide today and seek help to strengthen your application.