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Navigating The Path To Regional Visas: Your Gateway To A Life In Regional Australia

26th Oct 2023

Dive into the comprehensive world of regional visas and pave your path to a promising future, guided by the expertise of All Access Migration.

This article by the All Access Migration team, explains the options for regional visas in Australia. Detailing the pathways for skilled migrants to live and work amidst Australia’s regional areas, it offers a comprehensive overview of visa options and the potential benefits they present. Navigate the opportunities and requirements of regional visas with clarity and confidence, and take the first step in determining if this is a suitable option for you.

BACKGROUND – REGIONAL VISAS

For skilled migrants and their dependent family members, Australia offers two regional visa options. These visas provide the opportunity to live and work in regional areas, away from the metropolises of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Let’s explore these two pathways to your regional Australian dream.

1. SKILLED WORK REGIONAL (PROVISIONAL) VISA (SUBCLASS 491):

This visa is tailored for individuals nominated by a State or Territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member who can contribute their skills to regional Australia. Here’s what you can expect:

Duration: Upon approval, there is the possibility to stay in Australia for five years from the visa grant date.

Allowances: You are permitted to live, work, and study in a designated regional area.

Travel: Enjoy the freedom to travel to and from Australia while the visa remains valid.

Path to Permanent Residence: If eligible, you can apply for permanent residence through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191) after holding the Subclass 491 visa for three years.

Designated Regional Area:

It’s essential to reside, work, and study in a designated regional area throughout the duration of your visa. Keep in mind that your nomination must not be withdrawn, as this could jeopardise your visa status.

2. SKILLED EMPLOYER SPONSORED REGIONAL (PROVISIONAL) VISA (SUBCLASS 494):

For those sponsored by an employer in regional Australia, the Subclass 494 visa offers the chance to live, work, and study in designated regional areas. Here’s a snapshot:

Duration: You can stay in Australia for five years from the date your visa is granted.

Location: Live, work, and study exclusively in designated regional areas, excluding Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Travel: Like the Subclass 491 visa, you can travel to and from Australia during the visa’s validity.

Path to Permanent Residence: Eligible applicants can apply for permanent residence after holding the Subclass 494 visa for three years.

PATHWAYS TO PERMANENT RESIDENCE – (SKILLED REGIONAL) VISA (SUBCLASS 191):

From November 2022, new skilled regional provisional visa holders can apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191). This permanent visa opens doors to numerous opportunities:

Stay: You can reside in Australia permanently.

Work and Study: Enjoy the freedom to work and study in Australia.

Medicare: Enrol in Australia’s public health care scheme, Medicare.

Sponsor Family: You can sponsor your relatives to come to Australia.

Citizenship: If eligible, apply for Australian citizenship.

APPLICATION PROCESS AND TIMELINES:

You can apply for the subclass 491 and 494  visas from in or outside Australia. Application processing times can vary based on individual circumstances, including document submission, information requests, and external agency checks. For an estimate of processing times, you can use the visa processing time guide tool, which provides a general indication of recent application processing times.

In Summary – Regional Visas

In the vast nature of Australia’s regional development plans lies an opportunity for skilled migrants to enhance their professional journey and immerse in the unique vibrancy of regional communities. With two significant visa pathways, Subclass 491 and Subclass 494, applicants can transition from bustling urban spaces to tranquil regional havens. While the benefit of these visas is evident in their varied conditions, the potential to further secure permanent residence through Subclass 191 if all conditions are met, amplifies their appeal. The dream of living, working, and embracing the regional Australian lifestyle is more attainable with tools and guidelines in place to facilitate a smooth application process. Trust in experts like the All Access Migration to guide you through this processturning your regional Australian aspirations into tangible realities.

Embrace Regional Australia with Ramsden Lawyers!

Navigating the complex world of regional visas can be challenging, but with the proper guidance, you can embark on a fulfilling journey to live and work in regional Australia. Ramsden Lawyers is here to assist you in every step of the process, ensuring that your dreams of regional life become a reality. Contact us today, and let us  help you achieve a successful outcome throughout this exciting adventure!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance and should not be considered legal advice. Please seek specific advice based on your unique circumstances.

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