The Subclass 491 visa from Australia offers skilled individuals a great chance to live, work, and settle in regional Australia. However, securing this visa program seems overwhelming to many candidates because of the steps needed to ensure a state or territory nomination. This step significantly increases your chances of getting the Australian PR Visa.
If you are also planning to apply for the Aus PR Visa, this article is for you. Here, we’ll walk you through every detail about the state or territory nomination, how it works, and what steps you can take to improve your chances.
What is a Subclass 491 Visa?
The Subclass 491 visa is a point-based visa program designed for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory or sponsored by an eligible family member living in regional Australia.
After residing and working in a specific regional area of Australia, this visa program, which has a five-year validity period, offers a route to permanent residency in Australia (subclass 191).
Under this visa program, state or territory nomination will give you an additional 15 points, increasing your chances of receiving an ITA (Invitation to apply) for this visa program.
What state or territory accepts nominations for the 491 visa from Australia?
Under the 491 Visa for Australia, nominations are available to candidates in every state or territory.
- New South Wales (NSW)
- Victoria
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Western Australia
- Tasmania
- Northern Territory
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Each state or territory has its own Skilled Occupation List, rules, and processes. Under this, some focus more on healthcare or IT jobs, while others focus on international students or onshore applicants living in their respective states.
How to secure a nomination – Step-by-step process
Candidates must follow the following steps to successfully secure a nomination from an Australian state or territory.
Ensure your eligibility
At first, candidates should ensure that they meet the minimum requirements, including:
- The applicant must be younger than 45.
- A valid skill assessment is required for a position on the Australian Skilled Occupation List.
- At least 65 points should be earned by the contender, including the 15 from state or territory nominations.
- The candidate must speak and comprehend English.
These are merely prerequisites. Candidates will be asked to meet additional standards by a state or territory.
Select the right state or territory
It is one of the most crucial parts of the process because each state or territory has different rules for nominating applicants.
- New South Wales: The NSW often prioritises candidates already living in regional NSW.
- South Australia: It provides offshore applicants with a clear path.
- Tasmania: It supports candidates with ties to the state and graduates
- Victoria: It tends to favor tech, healthcare, and science roles.
Based on each state or territory’s unique rules, candidates should select the state where their occupation is in demand and where they fulfil their unique requirements.
Go through the state nomination guidelines
Every state has its requirements for nominations posted on its website. These may be:
- Having an offer of work in a regional location
- Evidence that you have lived or studied there for some time
- Appropriate work experience
- An exemplary commitment statement stating the reasons you wish to remain in the state in the long term
You must adhere very closely to their guidance — one misstep could cost you the nomination.
Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Then, lodge your EOI via the SkillSelect system. It is how you notify the government that you want to apply for a skilled visa. Select the Subclass 491 visa and choose the states you’d like to be nominated by.
Lodge an Application for State Nomination Directly
Lodging your EOI is just not sufficient. Additionally, you will have to apply directly to the state or territory. Usually, it includes:
- Completing an online form
- Uploading documents (such as your skills assessment, resume, and English test results)
- Paying a charge (some states do, some don’t)
- Writing a commitment statement indicating that you’re keen to live and work in their area
Wait for an Invitation
If the state or territory is satisfied with your application, they’ll nominate you through SkillSelect.
After being nominated, you may receive an invitation to apply for the 491 visa in a few weeks. The Department of Home Affairs will then process your visa application.
Conclusion
Australia’s Subclass 491 visa is a points-based scheme for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory or a relative residing in regional Australia. It is for a five-year duration and provides for progression to permanent residency.
Eligibility has minimal requirements, such as being below 45 years old, having a valid skill assessment, achieving 65 points, and ensuring English language skills. The candidates will receive an invitation to apply for the visa in a few weeks.
For more details about the Subclass 491 visa Australia, reach out to Keymart visa, the Best Australia Immigration Consultants in India, via +91 9911338722 or info@keymartvisa.com
