What is the 5 year work visa in Australia?

What is the 5 year work visa in Australia?

The Subclass 491 or the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa allows skilled migrants to reside, study, and work in Australia for up to 5 years. Subclass 491 is one of the most preferred pathways for skilled workers looking to live and work in any of the designated regional areas of Australia. To qualify for a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, you must have a valid nomination from the Australian territory or state government, score the required points in the points test, and have a valid skills assessment, along with other criteria. Along with the 491 visa, there are also other provisional work visas, such as the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494), with a validity of 5 years. Both visa pathways allow you to apply for PR in Australia after meeting the residency requirements.

*Looking to work in Australia? Get in touch with experts at Y-Axis to assist you with the steps.
 

Types of 5-year work visas in Australia

Many work visa options are available in Australia; however, there are only two major 5-year work visas for individuals looking to reside in Australia for up to 5 years.

The two different types of 5-year work visas in Australia are:

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491): The 491 visa is particularly for skilled workers looking to live, work, and even study in Australia for up to 5 years. An eligible family member in Australia must invite you or have a state nomination to qualify for the visa. The 491 visa also allows you to apply for permanent residence through the Subclass 191 visa pathway after living in the country for at least 3 years.
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494): The 494 visa is for skilled workers who have received sponsorship from a regional Australian employer. It is a type of temporary visa that allows you to stay for a maximum of 5 years in the country.

Note: Both the provisional visas allow individuals to stay in Australia for up to 5 years, providing a pathway to PR, upon eligibility.

Also, read…

What is the difference between Subclass 491 and 494 visas?
 

Who can apply for a 5-year work visa in Australia?

To be eligible for a 5-year work visa in Australia, you must meet the following criteria:

• Have a valid and original passport
• Have an occupation that is listed on the eligibility List
• Must have an Invitation to apply for the visa
• Be under 45 years of age to receive an invitation to apply
• Have a valid skills assessment
• Have English language proficiency  
• Meet the given health requirement
• Have a criminal clearance record (character requirement)

*Want to know more about Australian visas? Get in touch with experts at Y-Axis to guide you with the process. 
 

How to choose the right Australian 5-year work visa?

You can follow the simple steps given below to pick the right Australian 5-year work visa:

Step 1: Check your visa eligibility pathway

Check if you have a sponsoring employer visa (subclass 494 visa), have a nominated occupation in the skilled list (subclass 189 visa), or if you qualify for the Working Holiday visa.

Step 2: Check your occupation for the visa

After completing the above step, you must check if your occupation is listed on the eligible skilled occupations list.

Step 3: Skills Assessment

Get a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation from any registered authorities.

Step 4: Points-test (if required)

You must score at least 65 points to qualify for skilled visas. The points-based system is only required to be taken if applicable.

Step 5: Meet the other eligibility criteria

Once you have completed all the above steps, you must also ensure that you meet the required eligibility criteria based on the visa you are applying for (Age, English language, sponsorship, nomination, health requirements, etc.).

Step 6: Apply for the visa

As the last step, after eligibility, you must gather all the necessary documents, pay the application fee, and submit your visa application.
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Australian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!