Yes, it's easy because it gives you 15 bonus points.
Changes to the points test include:
- 10 points for applicants with a qualifying spouse or de facto partner (under 45 with proficiency in English, adequate competency assessment and with an occupation on the same list of qualifying occupations). Previously it was 5 points.
- 10 points for the candidate who does not have a spouse or de facto partner who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- 5 points for candidates with a competent English-speaking spouse or de facto partner.
- 15 points for candidates who are nominated by a state or territory government or are sponsored by an eligible family member. These points are relevant for candidates for a subclass 489 visa or the new subclass 491 visa. Earlier It used to be 10 points.
- 10 points for the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) grades. Australian Research Masters or PhD, minimum 2 years in a relevant field. Earlier it was 5 points.
489 vs 491: A look at the key changes
491 visa holders should live & work in Australia’s regional zone for 3 years before applying for PR under the 191 visa category (previously it was for 2 years). The visa validity period will be extended from 4 years to 5 years to give candidates more time to meet these requirements.
This visa will be accessible to more people; with over 500 new professions covered under the new Visa 491. In addition, the definition of regional Australia will be simplified and expanded to include all areas of Australia except metropolitan cities like; Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast & Perth. Notable changes here are that Newcastle, Wollongong and the Central Coast of New South Wales will be classified as regional and will be able to settle in more regional areas compared to the old 489 designated areas
Eligibility for 491 Visa
- Must be nominated by a state/territory government agency or by eligible family members.
- Must have a relevant occupation on a list of skilled occupations
- Must have a fair proficiency assessment for the occupation
- Must satisfy the score test
- Must be under the age of 45 at the time of the invitation
- Must have a working knowledge of English
- Must submit an expression of interest via Skill Select;
- Let the ministry invite you to apply;
- DHA Fee (Primary applicant) $4,045 & Spouse: $2,025
Advantages of the new skilled regional visas - Visa 491
- 16,000 places are allocated every year.
- Priority processing of regional applications.
- You can live, work & study in a designated regional area of Australia.
- Visa is issued initially for 5 years.
- You must live & work in regional areas for 3 years to be eligible for PR (Skilled regional) Visa 191
- Replaces 489 family & government-sponsored visas.
- Incentives for immigrants to remain in regional areas long-term as they build bonds through workforce and community engagement.
- All Welfare Benefits Act Passed: The law will implement government policy that holders of new interim regional skilled worker visas, will have access to government services compatible with the permanent skilled worker visas.
- You can switch regions and switch professions.
- You can apply for PR without a second level nomination through the Subclass 191 visa.
