More Opportunities for International Student Graduates in Victoria
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in Australia Immigration News, Australian Migration Strategy & Policy, Skilled Migration News
The Victorian Government has expanded pathways for international graduates, offering greater access to the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa. This initiative aims to retain skilled talent within the state, especially in regional areas, while supporting economic growth and community development.
Key Features of the Initiative:
- Reserved Nomination Places: In 2024-25, at least 500 subclass 491 visa nomination places will be reserved for international graduates from Victorian educational institutions. This represents a minimum of 25% of the state’s total allocation for this visa.
- Pathways for Melbourne Graduates: Graduates living and working in Melbourne can now submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) for subclass 491 visa nomination, providing an opportunity to relocate and build careers in regional Victoria.
These new pathways offer international graduates more chances to contribute to regional Victoria’s economy and communities, fostering sustainable growth in these areas.
Eligibility for Victorian Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa Nomination
To qualify for the subclass 491 nomination, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be one of the following:
- Living offshore
- An onshore graduate living in Melbourne holding a Student (subclass 500) or Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa, with the intention to relocate to regional Victoria
- An onshore graduate living in regional Victoria with a Student (subclass 500) or Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa
- Living and working in regional Victoria with another temporary residence visa
- Demonstrate a commitment to living and working in regional Victoria.
- Have a selected Registration of Interest (ROI).
- Be under 45 years of age.
- Have at least Competent English proficiency.
- Hold a valid skills assessment in an occupation listed as eligible for the visa.
- Score a minimum of 65 points on the points test used for your Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
Conclusion
The Victorian Government’s expansion of the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) nomination offers a valuable opportunity for international graduates to establish their careers in regional Victoria. With a dedicated portion of visa places reserved for graduates and new pathways for those based in Melbourne, this initiative supports both regional growth and the long-term career prospects of skilled migrants. By committing to live and work in these areas, international graduates can contribute to vibrant regional communities while benefiting from the visa’s potential pathways to permanent residency.
