The New South Wales Government is now accepting applications for nominations for the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) under Pathway 1 and Pathway 3. With a limited allocation of places available, potential applicants are encouraged to apply promptly to secure their spot.
What is the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Sc 491)?
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is designed for skilled workers who wish to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. This visa offers a pathway to permanent residency and is part of Australia’s initiative to bolster regional communities with skilled professionals. Successful applicants are granted a five-year visa and are eligible to apply for permanent residency after fulfilling certain criteria.
Pathway 1: Skilled Employment in Regional NSW
Pathway 1 is open to applicants currently employed in regional NSW in an occupation listed as eligible for the Subclass 491. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:
– Occupation Requirement: You must be working in your nominated (or a closely related) occupation within regional NSW.
– Employment Duration: You must have been working in this role for a minimum of six consecutive months with a single employer based in regional NSW.
– Salary Threshold: To qualify, you must be earning the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) from your regional NSW employer in your nominated (or related) occupation at the time of application.
– Flexibility for Border Town Applicants: The requirement to live specifically within NSW has been removed for Pathway 1. This offers greater flexibility for applicants residing in border towns, allowing them to apply without relocating.
This pathway is ideal for those already embedded in regional communities and actively contributing to the regional workforce in NSW.
Pathway 3: Regional NSW Graduate
Pathway 3 is tailored for graduates who have recently completed a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification in a designated regional area of NSW. This pathway aims to retain skilled graduates within regional NSW, fostering a skilled workforce for the state’s future.
To qualify under Pathway 3, applicants must meet the following criteria:
– Related Qualification: Your degree must be related to your nominated (or closely related) occupation.
– Recent Study: You must have completed your qualification within the two years immediately preceding your application for the NSW nomination.
– Regional Study Points: Your qualification must allow you to claim points for ‘Study in regional Australia’ under Schedule 6D of the points test.
This pathway is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates who have studied in regional NSW and are looking to establish their careers within the area.
Applying for NSW Sc 491 Nomination
If you’re interested in applying for a Skilled Work Regional Visa under Pathway 1 or Pathway 3, make sure to review the complete eligibility criteria listed on the NSW Government’s official website or book an appointment with one of our registered migration agents. Given the limited allocation, it’s advisable to prepare your documents and submit your application promptly to secure your nomination.
For those aiming to build a future in Australia, the Sc 491 Visa offers an incredible opportunity to contribute to regional NSW while pursuing permanent residency. Take advantage of this window by ensuring your eligibility and applying as soon as possible.
