Australia Subclass 491 and 494
Australia Subclass What is the Difference Between Subclass 491 and 494 Visas? By The Global Axis Immigration ConsultantsUpdated March 28, 2025Australia continues to be one
By The Global Axis Immigration Consultants
Updated August 26, 2025
Australia has consistently ranked among the top destinations for skilled professionals offering excellent job opportunities, competitive salaries, a family friendly lifestyle, and one of the world’s most structured immigration systems.
In 2025, Australia is reshaping its skilled migration strategy to address ongoing labor shortages, boost regional development, and attract global talent in critical sectors. With major policy reforms, streamlined visa processes, and clear pathways to Permanent Residency (PR), this year offers unmatched opportunities for skilled workers, students, and professionals planning to migrate.
At The Global Axis Immigration Consultants, we specialize in guiding skilled individuals through Australia’s evolving visa system ensuring that every step, from eligibility assessment to settlement, is smooth and stress free.
High demand for skilled workers in healthcare, education, construction, engineering, and ICT.
Globally competitive salaries average annual pay for skilled professionals ranges from AUD $80,000 to $150,000 depending on industry and location.
Permanent Residency opportunities through structured visa pathways.
Universal healthcare, world class education, and social benefits for families.
Safe, multicultural society with excellent work-life balance.
Regional opportunities with incentives to live and work outside major cities.
The Department of Home Affairs has introduced several reforms to strengthen Australia’s immigration system and attract professionals in high demand industries.
Increased Regional Nomination Quotas: More opportunities under Subclass 491 visas for professionals willing to work in regional Australia.
Updated Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL): Prioritizing healthcare, ICT, construction, teaching, and trades.
Faster Processing for Critical Skills: Healthcare, aged care, IT, and engineering applicants benefit from shorter timelines.
New Points Tested Pathways: Improved recognition of overseas qualifications, regional experience, and high English scores.
Extended PR Pathways for Temporary Visa Holders: Many employer sponsored visa holders can now transition more easily to PR.
👉 These changes reflect Australia’s long term commitment to filling labor shortages and strengthening its economy with skilled migrants.
Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) for 2025 highlights urgent labor needs across multiple industries.
Sector | In Demand Roles | Average Salary (AUD) |
---|---|---|
Healthcare | Registered Nurses, Aged Care Workers, General Practitioners, Specialists | $90,000 – $150,000 |
Engineering | Civil Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Structural Engineers | $85,000 – $140,000 |
ICT & Cybersecurity | Software Developers, Cloud Engineers, Cybersecurity Analysts, Data Scientists | $95,000 – $160,000 |
Construction | Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors, Electricians, Plumbers | $80,000 – $130,000 |
Education | Secondary School Teachers, Early Childhood Educators, Special Education Teachers | $75,000 – $115,000 |
Hospitality & Tourism | Chefs, Restaurant Managers, Hotel Supervisors | $65,000 – $100,000 |
Insight: Healthcare professionals, ICT experts, and engineers remain Australia’s top-priority migrants, with fast track visa processing and PR options.
No employer or state sponsorship required.
Points-tested (minimum 65 points, but competitive cut offs are often higher).
Direct PR pathway for skilled professionals with in demand qualifications.
Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.
Provides additional points for nomination.
Offers immediate PR upon grant.
5 year visa sponsored by regional authorities or eligible relatives.
Offers extra points for living and working in regional Australia.
PR eligibility after 3 years if residency and work requirements are met.
Employer-sponsored visa valid for 2 – 4 years.
Available in short term and medium term streams.
Many roles lead to PR through employer nomination.
Designed for international students who study in Australia.
Allows post-study work rights from 2 – 4 years depending on qualification.
Can transition into skilled visas like Subclass 189/190/491.
Age: Under 45 years.
Skills Assessment: Must pass in an eligible occupation.
Points Requirement: Minimum 65 points (higher points = better chances).
English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0+ (or PTE equivalent).
Health & Character Requirements: Medical clearance and police verification.
Skills Assessment – Submit qualifications for assessment by relevant authority (e.g., Engineers Australia, ANMAC for nurses).
English Test – Take IELTS/PTE/TOEFL to prove language proficiency.
Expression of Interest (EOI) – Submit through SkillSelect, indicating visa preferences.
State Nomination/Employer Sponsorship (if applicable).
Receive Invitation to Apply – Based on points, occupation demand, and state/territory requirements.
Visa Application – Submit documents, pay fees, and provide biometrics.
Visa Grant & Relocation – Receive approval and begin your journey to Australia.
Start Skills Assessment Early – Delays can slow down your visa process.
Maximize Points – Higher English scores, regional options, and advanced qualifications increase chances.
Leverage Regional Pathways – Subclass 491 offers more opportunities and faster PR.
Stay Updated – Occupation lists change annually; apply while your skill is in demand.
Seek Professional Help – Incorrect documentation or missed details often lead to refusals.
At The Global Axis, we don’t just file visa applications — we strategically plan your migration journey.
Personalized profile evaluation & visa matching
Expert documentation & EOI preparation
Assistance with job alignment & regional nominations
Registered MARA agents with years of expertise
Family-inclusive migration strategies
Post-visa settlement & relocation support
With our proven track record and transparent approach, we help skilled professionals achieve their Australian dream with confidence.
High-demand jobs = faster PR
Globally competitive salaries & job security
Universal healthcare & social benefits
Top-tier education for children
Safe, multicultural environment
Opportunities for permanent residency & citizenship
Contact The Global Axis Immigration Consultants today for a free profile evaluation and personalized strategy session. Our experts will guide you step by step to secure your Australia PR visa in 2025.
Your Australian dream is closer than you think — let us help you make it a reality.
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Contact us today to address all your immigration related inquiries and take the first step toward achieving your global aspirations
Contact us today to address all your immigration related inquiries and take the first step toward achieving your global aspirations