Changes in subclass 491 and 494 regional visas has now been released, including details on age and skill exemptions, occupation lists, English language requirements, and the pas mark on the points test. This will take effect on 16 November 2019.
New Scheme
Will introduce two new temporary visas on 16 November, which both have a validity period of up to 5 years:
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visa
- Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (subclass 494) visa
Replacing the Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) and Skilled Regional (subclass 887) visa respectfully.
Changes being made:
- Priority processing for regional visa applications
- Expansion of regional areas
- More skilled migration points available to 491 visa applications
- Greater range of occupations for non-regional pathways
- Can apply for permanent residence without a second nomination stage through the 192 visa
- Only one Skilled Australians Fund Levy means lower cost for employers for 494 nomination
Designated areas:
Any part of Australia excluding Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Perth and Melbourne, and Newcastle, Wollongong and the NSW Central Coast.
New Points System
New points system increases total number of points available for 491 visa, as well as all skilled migration visas, which provide new ways for applicants to earn points towards their score. They will receive:
- 15 points for nomination by eligible family member or by regional state or territory.
- 10 additional points for Masters or PhD in specific areas (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics – STEM).
- 10 partner points, if applicant has a skilled partner who is:
- Under 45 years of age at time of application,
- Obtains a positive skill assessment in an occupation on the same eligible list of occupations, and
- Has ‘competent’ English.
- Alternatively, 10 points, if:
- Single and have no dependent applicants, or
- Have a partner who is a permanent resident or citizen.
- 5 points if they have a partner who:
Is over 45 years of age, not working in a skilled occupation but can demonstrate Competent English.
