Skilled Visa 190 and 491 - Complete Guide

Are you planning to make the move to Australia and build a rewarding career? The Skilled Visa 190 and Skilled Regional Visa 491 are popular pathways for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australian states or regional areas. This guide from A Class Migration Education explains eligibility, the application steps, and what you need to prepare.

Understanding the Skilled Visa 190 and 491

The Skilled Visa 190 and 491 are points-based visas created to attract skilled workers to specific states or regional locations in Australia. These visas support regional development and help fill local skill shortages.

Key Eligibility Criteria

Before you start, make sure you meet these core requirements:

• Occupation: Your nominated occupation must appear on the relevant skilled occupation list for the visa subclass.
• Skills assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the assessing authority for your occupation.
• Points test: You need to meet the minimum points threshold based on factors such as age, English proficiency, education, and work experience.
• Nomination: For visa 190 you must be nominated by a state or territory government. For visa 491 you must be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
• Age limit: Most applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation. Some exceptions or variations may apply depending on the state or territory.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1 - Skills Assessment

Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. This confirms that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation.

Step 2 - Expression of Interest (EOI)

Submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. Your EOI contains details about your skills, nominated occupation, and points score. Only EOIs selected by states or the Department will be invited to apply.

Step 3 - State or Territory Nomination

For the 190 visa you must secure nomination from an Australian state or territory. Each state has its own list of occupations and nomination criteria. For the 491 visa you can be nominated by a state or sponsored by an eligible relative in a designated regional area.

Step 4 - Invitation to Apply

If your EOI is selected and you meet the nomination criteria, you will receive an invitation to apply. Invitations include a deadline for lodging your visa application, so be ready to act promptly.

Step 5 - Lodge Visa Application

Complete and submit your visa application within the specified timeframe. Include all required documents such as identity documents, skills assessment, English test results, and evidence of nomination or sponsorship.

Step 6 - Health and Character Checks

You and any included family members must undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates or other documents to satisfy health and character requirements.

Step 7 - Visa Decision

Once the Department processes your application, you will receive a decision. If successful, you will be granted the Skilled Visa 190 or 491 and can live and work in Australia under the visa conditions.

Tips to Maximise Your Points

• Improve your English language score where possible - higher test results award more points.
• Gather strong evidence for skilled employment and qualifications to support higher points claims.
• Consider partner points if applicable - a partner with competent English or a suitable skill can add points.
• Explore state nomination options - some states offer additional points or relaxed criteria for priority occupations.

Common Questions

What is the difference between visa 190 and 491?

Visa 190 is a state-nominated permanent skilled visa. Visa 491 is a provisional skilled visa that requires regional residence and can lead to permanent residency after meeting specific regional living and work requirements.

How long does the process take?

Processing times vary by individual circumstances and Department workloads. Timeliness depends on document completeness, health and character checks, and whether additional information is requested.

Can I include family members?

Yes. You can include eligible family members in your application. Each dependent will need to meet health and character requirements.

Why Work with A Class Migration Education?

Navigating skills assessments, EOI strategy, and state nomination rules can be complex. A Class Migration Education offers expert guidance to improve your chances of invitation and successful visa grant. Our services include:

• Skills assessment assistance
• EOI and points strategy
• State nomination advice
• Complete application preparation and review

Take the Next Step

Applying for a Skilled Visa 190 or 491 requires careful preparation and a clear strategy. If you want expert help to navigate the process and maximise your chances, contact A Class Migration Education for personalised support.

Book your consultation with A Class Migration Education today and start your path to living and working in Australia.