NSW Government Announces a Change to Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) Under Pathway 1 Nomination Criteria

The NSW Government is happy to announce a significant update to the nomination criteria for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) Pathway 1. Effective immediately, this change aims to enhance accessibility for skilled workers residing and working in regional NSW, fostering regional development and supporting the local economy.

Updated Nomination Criteria for Pathway 1

Previously, applicants for Pathway 1 had to reside and work in a designated regional area of NSW for at least 12 months with a single regional NSW-based employer, among other criteria. Following industry feedback from our recent Regional Skilled Migration seminars, we are now reducing this employment duration requirement to 6 months.

Key Changes

Reduced Employment Duration: Applicants must now reside and work in a designated regional area of NSW for the past continuous 6 months, instead of the previous requirement of 12 months.

This adjustment expands eligibility for skilled workers to apply for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) under Pathway 1, offering opportunities to individuals who have been actively contributing to regional economies and communities for at least six months.

Remaining Criteria

Employment must be with a single regional NSW-based employer working from an established business premises in regional NSW.
The role must be in the applicant’s nominated (or closely related) occupation.
The occupation must be deemed skilled by NSW.
Applicants must be paid a minimum of the TSMIT salary level of $70,000 (prorated if under 38 hours per week) from their qualifying employer in the nominated (or closely related) occupation in the 6 months immediately before applying.

Important Reminders

This policy adjustment is part of our ongoing commitment to support regional NSW by attracting skilled workers to our communities. It reflects our understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by regional employers and migrants, and our dedication to fostering a vibrant, diverse, and economically robust regional NSW.

Supporting Regional NSW

Conclusion

For all enquiries regarding the updated nomination criteria for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) or any other migration matters, please do not hesitate to contact our office via email at info@luminedgelegal.com.au