When considering Immigration to Australia, it’s important to understand the different visa subclasses available. Two popular options are the Australia Visa Subclass 189 and Subclass 491. Both these visas offer pathways to permanent residency, but they have distinct differences. Let’s explore the dissimilarities between the two.
Australia Visa Subclass 189:
The Australia Visa Subclass 189 is a points-tested visa, commonly known as the Skilled Independent Visa. It is designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory government, or a family member residing in Australia. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must submit an expression of interest through the SkillSelect system and obtain an invitation from the Australian government to apply. The Subclass 189 visa allows successful applicants and their accompanying family members to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
Key Features of Australia Visa Subclass 189:
- Points-based: Applicants must meet the points requirement, which is calculated based on various factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, and educational qualifications.
- No sponsorship required: Unlike the Subclass 491 visa, the Subclass 189 visa does not require sponsorship from an employer or family member.
- Occupation requirements: Applicants must nominate an occupation from the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Regional Occupation List (ROL).
- No regional restrictions: Subclass 189 visa holders have the freedom to live and work in any part of Australia.
- No nomination or sponsorship fees: There are no additional fees associated with nomination or sponsorship.
Australia Visa Subclass 491:
The Australia Visa Subclass 491, also known as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, is designed to address the skill shortages in regional areas of Australia. This visa requires sponsorship from either a state or territory government agency or an eligible relative living in a designated regional area. The Subclass 491 visa allows successful applicants and their accompanying family members to live, work, and study in a regional area for up to five years. After fulfilling certain criteria, holders of this visa can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
Key Features of Australia Visa Subclass 491:
- Points-based: Similar to the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must meet the points requirement based on various factors.
- Regional sponsorship: Applicants must be sponsored by either a state or territory government agency or an eligible relative residing in a designated regional area.
- Occupation requirements: Applicants must nominate an occupation from the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Regional Occupation List (ROL).
- Regional residency requirement: Subclass 491 visa holders must live, work, and study in a designated regional area to fulfill the residency requirements.
- Pathway to permanent residency: After living in a designated regional area for at least three years and meeting other eligibility criteria, Subclass 491 visa holders can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
In summary, the Australia Visa Subclass 189 is a points-tested visa for skilled workers who do not require sponsorship, while the Australia Visa Subclass 491 is a regional visa that requires sponsorship from a state or territory government agency or an eligible relative. Understanding the differences between these two visas will help you choose the right immigration pathway based on your circumstances and preferences.
