Migrating to Australia offers a diverse and vibrant experience. Known for its stunning landscapes, high quality of life, and robust job market, it attracts individuals seeking new opportunities. The country’s immigration system is structured to welcome skilled workers, making it an attractive destination for those looking to build a brighter future. So, are you planning to migrate to Australia as a skilled worker? If so, you might be wondering which visa option is best for you. This article will compare two popular visas for skilled workers: Australia skilled independent subclass 489 and skilled independent subclass 491.
We will explain the main differences of each visa and help you decide which one suits your needs better. But, if you don’t want to get into the hustle and bustle of understanding the working visa, you can connect with some of the expert immigration consultants in Bangalore for Australia, like PearVisa.
What are the Skilled Independent Subclass 491 and Subclass 489 visas?
The Skilled Independent Subclass 491 visa is a new visa that replaced the Subclass 489 visa in November 2019. A provisional visa allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia’s regional areas for up to five years. After three years of living and working in regional Australia, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa. Whereas Australia skilled independent subclass 489 was a provisional visa that allowed skilled individual workers to live and work in regional areas of Australia for up to four years. After two years of living and working in regional Australia, you could apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 887 visa.
What are the main differences between the Subclass 491 and Subclass 489 visas?
There are some significant changes that you should be aware of when comparing the Subclass 491 and Subclass 489 visas. Here are some of the main differences:
- The Subclass 491 visa has a longer validity period (five years) than the Subclass 489 visa (four years).
- The Subclass 491 visa has a longer residency requirement (three years) than the Subclass 489 visa (two years) to be eligible for permanent residency.
- The Subclass 491 visa has access to more eligible occupations (over 500) than the Subclass 489 visa.
- The Subclass 491 visa has more points available for state nomination or family sponsorship (15 points), partner skills (10 points), partner English (10 points), and selected STEM occupations (10 points). Applicants without a spouse or partner also receive an additional 10 points.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Australian visa is crucial to fulfilling your immigration dream. Although both the Skilled Independent Subclass 491 and Subclass 489 visas offer advantages, it’s imperative to comprehend their differences and match them with your specific situation.
So, if you need more guidance, you can consult PearVisa, one of the best expert immigration consultants in Bangalore for Australia. Our expert immigration team can advise you on the best visa option. Feel free to contact our expert and move one step closer to achieving your dream.
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