Australia's migration landscape offers various pathways for potential migrants, and the 491 Visa Family Sponsored Stream stands out for those with relatives willing to sponsor their move. This comprehensive guide covers the key aspects of the 491 Visa Family Sponsored Stream, including eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and frequently asked questions, to provide you with a clear understanding of this pathway to Australian residency.
What is the 491 Visa Family Sponsored Stream?
The 491 Visa Family Sponsored Stream is a temporary visa designed for skilled workers who wish to live, work, and study in regional Australia. It is part of the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa category and allows holders to apply for permanent residency after meeting specific requirements. A distinctive feature of this visa is the requirement for applicants to be sponsored by a family member residing in a designated regional area of Australia.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 491 Visa under the Family Sponsored Stream, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
- Occupation: Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Skills Assessment: Obtain a suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
- Points Test: Score at least 65 points on the immigration points test.
- Sponsorship: Be sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate competent English language skills.
Who Can Sponsor You?
Your sponsor must be a family member aged 18 years or over and be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Eligible relatives include parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, first cousins, or grandparents who live in a designated regional area.
Application Process
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect, indicating your interest in the Family Sponsored Stream.
- Invitation to Apply: If you meet the eligibility criteria and your EOI scores are competitive, you may receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
- Visa Application: Submit a complete visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation, including all required documents and evidence of sponsorship.
- Assessment and Decision: Your application will be assessed, and additional information may be requested. Once processed, you will be informed of the decision.
Benefits of the 491 Visa Family Sponsored Stream
Holders of the 491 Visa can:
- Live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia.
- Travel to and from Australia as many times as they want while the visa is valid.
- Apply for permanent residency via the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191) after meeting specific requirements, including living and working in a regional area for three years and earning a minimum income threshold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does the visa last?
The 491 Visa is valid for five years from the date of grant.
Can I include family members in my application?
Yes, you can include your partner and your or your partner's dependent children or stepchildren in your application.
What regions are considered 'designated regional areas'?
Designated regional areas include all of Australia except for Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Specific postcodes are listed on the Department of Home Affairs website.
How do I earn points on the immigration points test?
Points are awarded based on age, English language ability, skilled employment experience (both in and outside Australia), Australian educational qualifications, and other factors such as partner skills and Australian study requirements.
Embarking on your migration journey with the 491 Visa Family Sponsored Stream can be a promising path to regional living and permanent residency in Australia. With the right preparation and understanding of the process, your dream of calling Australia home is within reach. If you're considering applying for the 491 Visa or have any questions about your eligibility, don't hesitate to book a consultation. Your adventure down under starts here!
Remember:
This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent
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