The Australian 491 visa (Skilled Work Regional Visa, Subclass 491) is a temporary 5-year visa that allows applicants to live and work in regional areas of Australia. After meeting a 3-year residency requirement, visa holders can apply for a permanent 191 visa.

This visa category is available to applicants who have eligible family members living in regional Australia.

Basic Eligibility Requirements for the 491 Family-Sponsored Visa

The following conditions apply to the 491 family-sponsored visa:

Age Requirement:
The applicant must be under 45 years old.

English Language Requirement:
A minimum IELTS score of 6 in each band, or an equivalent score in another recognized test.

Occupation Requirement:

The nominated occupation must be on the 491 Family-Sponsored Occupation List (MLTSSL - Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List).

The applicant must pass the relevant skills assessment for the nominated occupation.

Points Requirement:

Applicants must have a minimum of 65 points in their Expression of Interest (EOI).

If the applicant has a family member who is eligible to sponsor them, they will receive an additional 15 points.

Health and Medical Requirements:

The applicant must pass a medical exam.

Family Sponsorship Requirements:

The sponsor must be at least 18 years old.

The sponsor must have a minimum of 4 in each band on their English test.

The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

The sponsor must reside in a designated regional area of Australia.

Eligible family members include:

Parents

Children or stepchildren

Siblings, including half-siblings, step-siblings, and adopted siblings

Aunts, uncles, including step-aunts and step-uncles

Nephews, nieces, including step-nephews and step-nieces

Grandparents

Cousins

Visa Duration:
The visa is valid for 5 years. After living in a designated regional area for at least 3 years, the visa holder can apply for a permanent 191 visa.

Family Sponsorship vs. State Sponsorship:
This visa can be sponsored by a family member, as opposed to a state or territory government. The key difference is the eligibility and benefits provided by a family member versus a state government. Family sponsorship can sometimes be easier to navigate as it doesn't involve the complex state nomination processes.

This visa is an excellent option for those with relatives living in regional Australia who want to move to Australia and work toward obtaining permanent residency. If you're considering applying for this visa, make sure you meet all the necessary requirements and consult with an immigration professional to understand your eligibility fully.