Skilled Work Regional Visa

Key features of the subclass 491 visa include:

1. Regional Sponsorship: To be eligible for the subclass 491 visa, applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government agency or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area of Australia.
   

2. Points Test: Applicants must meet the points test requirements, which consider factors such as age, English language proficiency, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant factors. A minimum score is required to be eligible for the visa.
   

3. Skills Assessment: Applicants must have their skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority for their nominated occupation to ensure they meet the requirements for skilled migration to Australia.
   

4. Temporary Residency: The subclass 491 visa is a temporary visa that allows holders and their families to live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia for up to five years.
   

5. Pathway to Permanent Residency: Holders of the subclass 491 visa may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Skilled Regional (Permanent) visa (subclass 191) pathway, provided they meet certain requirements, including residing in a designated regional area for a specified period and meeting income thresholds.
   

Overall, the subclass 491 visa provides skilled workers with an opportunity to live and work in regional areas of Australia, addressing skill shortages and promoting economic development in these areas. It also offers a pathway to permanent residency for eligible visa holders who contribute to the regional communities they reside in.