Closure of The Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (RSMS) and introduction of new subclass 491 and 494 visas

The Department of Home Affairs will close the Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (RSMS) on 15 November 2019. On 16 November 2019, two new visa subclasses will be opened – the Skilled Employer Sponsored (Provisional) visa (subclass 494 visa) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491 visa).

The subclass 494 visa is for people sponsored by an employer in regional Australia. There are about 700 eligible occupations. The visa holder must live and work in a regional area for three years before being eligible to apply for permanent residence.

The subclass 491 visa is for people who are nominated by a State or Territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member to live and work in regional Australia. There are over 500 eligible occupations. The visa holder must live and work in a regional area for three years before being eligible to apply for permanent residence.

Author: Frances Saggers