Australia Work Permit Process Flow under Subclass 491
Check Eligibility :
Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the Subclass 491 visa, which includes being nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
Skills Assessment :
Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority.
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) :
Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and indicate your interest in applying for the Subclass 491 visa.
State Nomination or Family Sponsorship :
State Nomination: If applying for state nomination, wait for a nomination from the state or territory government where you intend to work.
Family Sponsorship: If applying through family sponsorship, have your eligible relative apply for sponsorship on your behalf.
Invitation to Apply (ITA) :
If you receive a nomination or family sponsorship, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the Subclass 491 visa.
Lodge Visa Application :
Complete and submit your visa application online, attaching all required documents, such as identity documents, skills assessment, English language test results, health assessments, and character certificates.
Wait for Processing :
Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your visa application. Processing times can vary based on the complexity of the case and the current workload.
Health and Character Checks :
Undergo health examinations and provide character certificates to meet Australia's health and character requirements.
Visa Grant :
If your visa application is approved, you will receive a visa grant notification for the Subclass 491 visa.
Travel to Australia :
Plan your travel to Australia within the specified entry period provided in your visa grant notification.
Start Working :
Upon arrival in Australia, activate your Subclass 491 visa and start working in the designated regional area as specified in your visa conditions.
Residency Requirements :
Fulfill the residency and work requirements specified for the Subclass 491 visa to maintain your visa status and eligibility for permanent residency pathways.