New occupation list and changes since 16th November
From 16th of November 2019, DHA has introduced two new visas and new occupation lists for those visas.
New 491 visa information
Eligibility
- be nominated to apply by a state or territory government agency, or an eligible relative must sponsor you
- have an occupation on a relevant skilled occupation list
- have a suitable skill assessment for the occupation
- be invited to apply
- satisfy the points test
The visa will be granted for 5 years. You must live, work and study in a designated regional area of Australia. This visa will allow you to travel to and from Australia as many times as you want while the visa is valid.
New 494 visa information
Eligibility
- be nominated by an approved work sponsor
- have an occupation on a relevant skilled occupation list
- have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
- Three years full time or equivalent work experience on closely related occupation
- be under 45 years of age
- meet minimum standards of english language proficiency
This visa will also be granted for 5 years. You can live work and study only in designated regional areas of Australia. You will be eligible to apply for permanent residency after 3 years from the time your visa is granted.
Subclass 191 Visa information
Eligibility
- Must hold 491 or 494 visa for at least three years
- Taxable income for each of the three years not less that specified amount. Currently it is $53,900
- Must have complied with all visa conditions on your current 491 and 494 visa
This is a permanent resident visa and can stay in Australia indefinitely.
For students and PSW visa holders
Additional 1 year is available for PSW graduate visa holders if you have undertaken your course in cities and major regional centres and stayed in that region while holding the visa. Similarly, additional 2 years is available for those who have studies and completed course in regional centres and regional areas and lived in that region while holding the visa.
Additional points for eligible people
Due to the change in definition of designated regional areas, additional 5 points can be claimed for those who have completed the course in those regions. Additional 10 points is awarded for eligible people and brief explanation on the eligibility is explained on http://visahubaustralia.com/new-points-calculation-system-and-rankings-from-16th-november-2019/. Please note points has to be updated manually on your EOI.
Additional information for 491 and 494 visa holders
- Eligible for Medicare once 491 or 494 is granted.
- Entitled to 510 hours of English language tuition for applicants without functional English.
- 491 visa holders do not need to work in nominated occupation after grant to be eligible for PR
Some important links with new occupation list and new postcodes for regional areas.
- 491 visa – https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2019L01402
- 494 visa – https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2019L01403
- New postcodes – https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2019L01446
