The Australian 491 Visa Occupation List & State Requirements

Anyone interested in the state-sponsored 491 visa, will not only need to make sure their occupation is on the Australian 491 visa occupations list, but that it is also listed by whichever state or territory they plan on being sponsored by. 

Let’s take a closer look at the full list of occupations for the 491 visa, as well as how to check each state or territory’s current list and any additional requirements they may have.

What is the 491 visa

The Skilled Work Regional Visa subclass 491, permits you and your family to work, live, and study in Australia’s regional areas for a period of 5 years. It is a point-based visa that requires one of Australia’s states or territories to sponsor you unless you have an eligible relative in Australia to sponsor you. 

The 491 visa is a great option for migrants wanting a pathway to Permanent Residency (PR). So if that’s your goal, it’s worth taking the time to learn more about the 491 visa and to make sure you meet the visa requirements. Those who are eligible can apply for permanent residency after 3 years through the 191-subclass visa.

Every Australian state and territory has its own list of occupations that they have a shortage of within their local labour market. Their occupation lists are regularly updated and often includes additional requirements that must be met, as well as the visa requirements. So, before you start spending a lot of time gathering documents or submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI), check that your occupation is listed for the 491 visa, and then that it is listed by your desired state or territory’s in their 491 occupation list.

Here is what we suggest you start off by doing:

Step 1 – Checking the 491 visa occupations list

As per the 491 legislative instrument, there is a set list of occupations that are listed for the 491 visa. This list of occupations has been summaries in the table below:

Last updated March 2022

Finding your occupation’s ANZSCO description

On the ANZSCO website you will find the full ANZSCO description for your occupation. First, copy your occupation’s ANZSCO number from the table above → click the button directly below → you’ll be redirected to the ANZSCO site → then finally, paste your ANZSCO number into the search bar (top right of page). 

Step 2 – Checking each state and territory’s 491 occupation list

From the main 491 visa occupation list, each state and territory will create their own list of occupations to reflect their current labour shortages and which skilled workers they want to attract to their state or territory. 

Not only will they have their own list of occupations, but often have additional requirements that must be met, in order to be invited to apply. Some examples of additional requirements have been that you must be already in Australia or in the state/territory, you may need a higher score than the standard 65 points, or you may need to have a job offer from an employer within the state.

To check the most recent occupation list, and any additional requirements for each state and territory, the following links will help:

Step 3 – Start the process

Hopefully, you have now checked the main 491 visa occupations list as well as each state and territory, and found your occupation.

Next, you will need to calculate your point score to make sure you meet the minimum required score. Then as with all Australian visas, you are going to have to gather a number of documents to prove you meet the visa requirements.

As with most Australian visas, understanding what to do or what is required can be complicated and frustrating. If you want professional help understanding your visa options, or applying for the 491 visa, contact us. Visa Jobs has partnered with a number of experienced and friendly Registered Migration Agents who can guide you from start to finish.

More visa information

Disclaimer

All of the information provided has been gathered and written based on general information that is available at the Department of Home Affairs website.

This information is not legal advice and should be used for general information purposes only. 

We strongly recommend you engage a Registered Migration Agent who can complete a full assessment and advise you accordingly. If you would like to be connected with a Registered Migration Agent, please contact us and we will find an agent to help you.  

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Get in contact with us today to find out more or ask any questions you may have.

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