Australia Work Permit Process Flow under Subclass 491
Check Eligibility :
Ensure you meet the criteria for the Subclass 491 visa, including being nominated by an Australian state or territory government 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 appropriate assessing authority.
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) :
Lodge your Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect, expressing your interest in applying for the Subclass 491 visa.
State Nomination or Family Sponsorship :
State Nomination: If applying through state nomination, wait for a nomination from the state or territory government where you plan to work.
Family Sponsorship: If applying via family sponsorship, your eligible relative will need to apply for sponsorship on your behalf.
Invitation to Apply (ITA) :
Once 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, providing all required documents such as identity proof, skills assessment, English language test results, health assessments, and character certificates.
Wait for Processing :
Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your application. Processing times may vary depending on the complexity of your case and the current workload.
Health and Character Checks :
Complete health exams and submit character certificates to meet Australia's health and character requirements.
Visa Grant :
If 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 mentioned in your visa grant notification.
Start Working :
Upon arrival in Australia, activate your Subclass 491 visa and begin working in the designated regional area as per your visa conditions.
Residency Requirements :
Fulfill the residency and work conditions specified for the Subclass 491 visa to maintain your visa status and remain eligible for permanent residency pathways.
