Top Reasons Why Subclass 491 Visa Applications Get Rejected (And How to Avoid Them)

Zhanna Heenan

Migration Services 17 April, 2025

Applying for a Subclass 491 visa is a significant step toward building a future in Australia, but many applicants face rejection due to avoidable mistakes. The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491) is designed to attract skilled workers to regional Australia, offering a pathway to permanent residency. However, without careful preparation, applicants may find themselves facing delays or even refusals.

In this blog, we explore the most common reasons why Subclass 491 visa applications get rejected and how professional migration agents Australia can provide migration assistance to help you avoid these pitfalls.

1. Failure to Meet Eligibility Requirements

One of the most common reasons for visa refusal is failing to meet the basic eligibility criteria. The Subclass 491 visa has strict requirements, including:

• Being nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member in a designated regional area.
• Having an occupation listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
• Meeting the required points test threshold (minimum of 65 points).
• Being under 45 years of age at the time of application.
• Demonstrating competent English proficiency.

How to Avoid This Issue

Before submitting your application, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. Consulting migration agents Australia can help you assess your points score, verify your occupation eligibility, and determine whether you qualify for state or family sponsorship.

2. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Missing, incomplete, or incorrect documentation is another leading cause of rejection. The Department of Home Affairs requires substantial evidence to support your claims, including:

• Proof of work experience (employment contracts, payslips, tax records).
• Skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority.
• English language test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL).
• Proof of relationship status (if applying with dependents or family sponsorship).
• Financial documents (if required by your nominating state).

How to Avoid This Issue

Work with a registered migration agent who can review your documents for accuracy and completeness before submission. Migration assistance from experienced professionals ensures that your application includes all necessary documents, reducing the risk of rejection.

3. Not Meeting Skills Assessment Requirements

A positive skills assessment is essential for a Subclass 491 visa, but many applicants underestimate its complexity. Each assessing authority has different criteria, and failure to meet them can result in visa refusal.

Common Issues with Skills Assessments

• Incorrect assessing authority: Different professions have different assessing bodies (e.g., Engineers Australia for engineers, ACS for IT professionals).
• Insufficient work experience: Some assessments require a minimum number of years in the field.
• Improperly formatted documents: Lack of required evidence, such as detailed reference letters.

How to Avoid This Issue

Before applying for your Subclass 491 visa, consult migration agents Australia to confirm:

• The correct assessing authority for your occupation.
• The specific requirements for your work experience and qualifications.
• That your documents are formatted correctly and contain sufficient details.

4. Low Points Score

The Subclass 491 visa operates on a points-based system, and applicants must achieve at least 65 points to be eligible. However, due to competition, applicants often need a higher score to receive an invitation.

How to Increase Your Points Score

• Improve English proficiency: Achieving a superior score in an English language test (IELTS, PTE) can significantly boost your points.
• Gain more work experience: More years of skilled employment can increase your points.
• Pursue further education: Higher qualifications often result in additional points.
• Obtain state nomination or family sponsorship: Adds 15 points to your total score.

How to Avoid This Issue

If your points score is low, migration agents Australia can guide you on strategies to increase your points, such as improving your English test results or obtaining additional qualifications.

5. Failure to Meet Health and Character Requirements

The Australian government requires Subclass 491 visa applicants to meet strict health and character standards. If an applicant has a medical condition or a criminal record, their visa may be rejected.

Common Issues

• Health concerns: Conditions that may place a burden on Australia’s healthcare system can lead to rejection.
• Criminal history: Applicants with past convictions must provide police clearance certificates from every country they have lived in for more than 12 months.

How to Avoid This Issue

If you have health or character concerns, seek migration assistance early in the process. A migration agent can advise on possible waivers or additional documentation that may be required.

6. Errors in State Nomination Applications

To apply for a Subclass 491 visa, applicants must secure state nomination from an Australian state or territory. Each state has different nomination criteria, and errors in this process can result in refusal.

Common State Nomination Mistakes

• Applying for nomination in a state where your occupation is not in demand.
• Failing to meet state-specific work experience or financial requirements.
• Providing incorrect or incomplete nomination applications.

How to Avoid This Issue

Research the requirements of your chosen state carefully. A migration agent can guide you in selecting the best state for your occupation and ensure your nomination application meets all requirements.

7. Inadequate Proof of Genuine Intentions to Live in Regional Australia

The Subclass 491 visa requires applicants to genuinely commit to living and working in regional Australia. Some applications are rejected because the government doubts the applicant’s intentions.

How to Prove Your Commitment

• Provide evidence of job searches, rental applications, or local community engagement.
• Explain your reasons for choosing a particular regional area in a genuine commitment statement.
• If applicable, show proof of family or social connections in the region.

How to Avoid This Issue

A migration agent can help you draft a strong statement and gather supporting documents to demonstrate your genuine commitment to regional Australia.

Final Thoughts: Secure Your Subclass 491 Visa with Expert Migration Assistance

Applying for a Subclass 491 visa can be complex, and even small mistakes can lead to rejection. However, with careful planning and professional migration assistance, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

At Heenan & Browne Visa and Migration Services, our experienced migration agents Australia specialize in helping skilled workers navigate the visa process. From assessing your eligibility to ensuring your documentation is complete and accurate, we provide the support you need to achieve a smooth and successful visa outcome.

Don’t leave your future to chance—contact Heenan & Browne Visa and Migration Services today and take the first step toward securing your Subclass 491 visa and building a new life in regional Australia!