On 16.11.2019, 2 new regional visas were adopted: the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) and the
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494)
Main features of the 491 visa:
- provisional visa valid for 5 years
- pathway to permanent residency (visa subclass 191, not yet in force)
- occupation on skilled occupation list
- applicant must be under 45 years
- applicant must have a skills assessment
- applicant must have “competent English”
- applicant must have at least 3 years work experience
- points test to be met
- State nomination required
- the applicant must then live, work and study in a regional area
Main features of the 494 visa
- provisional visa valid for 5 years
- pathway to permanent residency (visa subclass 191, not yet in force)
- occupation on skilled occupation list
- applicant must be under 45 years
- applicant must have a skills assessment
- applicant must have “competent English”
- applicant must have at least 3 years work experience
- applicant must be sponsored by an employer in a regional area
- applicant must live, work and study in a regional area