Australia skilled visas: 190 and 491 explained

Considering a move to Australia for work and to establish a new chapter in your life? Well, it’s important to acquaint yourself with the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491), the two primary pathways for skilled migrants. These visas offer distinct options for achieving either permanent residency or provisional status in Australia, tailored to your individual circumstances and preferences.

Skilled Visas in Australia Image: Unsplash Eligibility for both these visas hinges on your occupation aligning with Australia’s relevant skilled occupation list.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190):

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa is a permanent visa for skilled professionals evaluated through a points-based system, involving nomination by an Australian State or Territory government.

This visa ensures your long-term stay in Australia, granting you the freedom to work, study, and travel to and from the country for up to 5 years. Holders of this visa also have the privilege of sponsoring family members for permanent residency.

Requirements:

Evaluation of your expertise in your chosen profession by the appropriate assessing authority. Age under 45 years. Achieve a minimum of 65 points. Demonstrate at least proficient (or equivalent) English language skills. Nomination by a State or Territory government. Lodge a visa application request with the Department of Home Affairs. Fulfill character and health criteria.

Uniform Application Process Image Credits: Canva Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491):

Commonly referred to as the 491 visa in Australia, this is a points-based provisional visa designed for skilled workers with sponsorship from an eligible relative.

With the Subclass 491 visa, you’re granted a 5-year stay in Australia, during which you can live, study, and work within a designated regional area. This visa also allows you to make frequent trips to and from the country based on its validity.

Requirements:

Assessment of your expertise in your chosen profession by the appropriate assessing authority. Age under 45 years. Accumulate a minimum of 65 points. Demonstrate at least proficient (or equivalent) English language skills. Sponsored by a qualified relative residing in a specific regional area of Australia or nominated by a State or Territory government. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect. Lodge a visa application request with the Department of Home Affairs. Fulfill character and health criteria.

Application Process

The application process for both these Australian visas follows the same pattern.

Assessment of your qualifications and point allocation. Obtain a skills assessment and, if necessary, an English language proficiency test result. Check eligibility and the nomination criteria of the relevant State or Territory. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) using SkillSelect. Lodge a visa application request with the Department of Home Affairs. Submit an online visa application within 60 days of receiving an invitation. Provide the required documentation and visa fees. Await the outcome of your visa application.