Skilled - Independent Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 495)

The purpose of this visa is to allow skilled workers who are unable to meet the criteria for a permanent visa the opportunity to eventually apply for residence in Australia provided they are prepared to live for two (2) years, and work at least 12 months, in a regional or low population growth metropolitan area in Australia. Successful applicants are initially granted a three (3) year visa to give them time to satisfy the residence and employment criteria for a permanent visa.

This visa requires sponsorship by a participating State or Territory government or delegated Regional Certifying Body (NSW only). All states and territories, with the exception of the ACT, are participating.

Who is this visa for?

This visa is for applicants who meet the key eligibility criteria for a General Skilled Migration visa.

Applicants must also be one of the following:

• a person in or outside Australia who is unable to meet the pass mark on the points test for a permanent Skilled - Independent visa, but who can meet the pass mark for this visa, which is slightly lower
• a person who has a Skilled - Independent visa application which has been 'pooled' at the SIR passmark and been invited to apply for this visa
• a holder of a Working Holiday Maker visa who has been in Australia on that visa for at least six (6) months
• a holder of an Occupational Trainee visa who has completed the period of training for which the visa was granted.

This visa has a points test and other requirements that must be met.

What does this visa let me do?

This visa:

• allows you to remain in Australia for up to three (3) years and requires you to live and work in a regional or low-population growth area when in Australia
• allows accompanying family members to work and study, but only in a regional or low-population growth areas of Australia
• provides applicants a pathway to permanent residence.

The contents of this page are necessarily an abbreviated overview of a very detailed subject. The situation may change as the law can alter quickly and we therefore strongly recommend that you take professional advice about your personal circumstances before placing any reliance on the contents of the website. Contact us to let us know your situation and we will be happy to provide a telephone appraisal without charge.