Subclass 491 Visa Checklist For International Students

Australia has emerged as a highly sought-after destination among foreign nationals, and the Subclass 491 visa presents a remarkable opportunity for individuals looking to immerse themselves in the country’s stunning landscapes. This visa allows skilled workers and their families to establish their lives in specific regions of Australia, providing them with the freedom to live, study, and work for a duration of 5 years. To be eligible for this visa category, applicants must either be nominated by a state or sponsored by a qualifying family member who is a permanent resident of Australia. Tag along as we take you through Subclass 491 Visa Checklist. 

Eligibility Criteria for 491 Visa:


To meet the requirements for a Subclass 491 visa, aspiring applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

Nomination: Obtain a nomination from a designated region or an eligible relative. This means that either a specific region within Australia or a qualified family member must express support for your visa application.

Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to showcase your desire to obtain the Subclass 491 visa. The EOI serves as an initial step where you indicate your interest in settling to Australia.

English Proficiency: Demonstrate a competent level of English language proficiency. This requirement ensures that applicants possess adequate language skills to effectively communicate and integrate into Australian society.

Health and Character Assessment for 491 Visa: Provide evidence of good health and character, typically through medical examinations and police clearance certificates. This step is crucial to ensure that individuals looking to settle in the country do not pose a risk to public health or safety.

Invitation: Receive an invitation from the Australian government in response to your Expression of Interest (EOI). This invitation signifies that your application has been reviewed and deemed suitable for further processing.

Age Limit: Be under the age of 45 years at the time of application. 

By satisfying these eligibility criteria, individuals can seize the incredible opportunity offered by the Subclass 491 visa, embarking on a journey to Australia’s breath-taking landscapes, enjoying the benefits of long-term residency, pursuing educational opportunities, and contributing to the country’s diverse workforce.

However, it’s advised to keep checking on Government website to learn if there’s a change in the policy for Subclass 491 visa.

To apply for subclass 491 visa, you are required to submit several documents as supporting evidence for the information provided in your Expression of Interest (EOI). The necessary documents include:

Valid Passport: A copy of your current passport.

Police Clearance Certificate: A document verifying your criminal record or stating that you have no criminal history.

Marriage Certificate: If applicable, provide a marriage certificate as proof of marital status.

Language Competency Report: Submit a report that demonstrates your proficiency in the required language.

For applicants aged between 18 and 23, the following additional documents are required for 491 Visa:

Birth Certificate: Provide a copy of your birth certificate.

Passport: Submit a copy of your passport.

Evidence of Financial Dependency: Show proof of financial dependency, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Adoption Papers (if applicable): Only for cases where the applicant has been adopted.

For applicants over the age of 23 who are dependent on their parents due to physical or cognitive impairments, the following additional documents are necessary for 491 Visa:


Birth Certificate:
Provide a copy of your birth certificate.

Passport: Submit a copy of your passport.

Evidence of Financial Dependency: Show proof of financial dependency, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Adoption Papers (if applicable): Only for cases where the applicant has been adopted.

Medical Reports: Include medical reports addressing the applicant’s specific condition.

The following documents are associated with the claims made in your EOI and need to be provided for 491 Visa:

Skill Assessment: Submit a document verifying your skills in the relevant occupation.

Language Assessment: Provide evidence of your language proficiency assessment.

Australian Skilled Employment: Include documents confirming any skilled employment you have had in Australia.

Education Qualification: Submit educational qualifications that meet the Australian standards.

Specialist Education: Provide proof of any specialized education or training.

Study in Regional Australia: If applicable, include documents proving that you have completed studies in a regional area of Australia.

Partner Skills: Submit documents demonstrating the skills of your partner, if applicable.

Work Experience in Australia: Include evidence of any work experience you have gained in Australia.

If you have a sponsor, the sponsor needs to provide the following documents:

Age Proof: Provide proof of your sponsor’s age (must be 18 years or above).

Declaration by Sponsor: Submit a declaration from your sponsor confirming their support.

Proof of Eligible Relationship: Include documents proving the sponsor’s eligibility as a relative.

Permanent Residency Proof: Provide evidence of your sponsor’s permanent residency status.

How many points you need to be eligible for visa?

Minimum of 65 points. 

How can you score 65 points?

Well, let’s connect and discuss how we can help you with it. Book your consultation with us.

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