Maddysue

Hello again! Does anyone else who is a 491 visa holder stuck offshore have an occupation on the new PMSOL priority occupation list? I do (construction PM) and am wondering if I should apply for a travel exemption. The list published seems to focus on those wanting an employer sponsored visa, but I have my visa already off my own back not through a company.. anyone else tried for the exemption and what happened?

I noticed on a few pages today that there has been invitations for 189 visas and also family sponsored 491 today / yesterday. I find it hopeful and interesting that this is the case but there is no talk of when the 491 people can actually enter the country? Even if they could give a date for the end of the year that would be helpful. Not expecting the borders to open by any means but the 491 visa should be allowed entry just like 189 and 190 PR visas

I totally agree with you both. It has many of the same rights and entitlements as the 190 and 189 visas so it does feel like we have been hard done by. Furthermore I do worry that as suspect many of the 491 grants will have been onshore, they've forgotten about those few of us stuck offshore who were given these new visas. Even a mention or acknowledgement to say we haven't forgotten about you would be great Madeleine

Hello both! There was a report whereby it was apparently mentioned that long term skilled visas was the logical next step. I agree I cannot see the borders being opened for possibly 12 months fully, to tourists etc. However, I am hopeful that further visas I. E the 491 may be added to the OK to enter list, at least by say the end of the year (hinted by the tourism minister)... https://www.sbs.com.au/language/english/tourism-minister-hints-at-possibility-of-allowing-longer-term-work-visa-holders-after-international-students I guess all we can do is monitor and stay positive. I agree though these little secondary waves are not helping things

I totally understand your pain r.e the 491 visa (it is not an 'easy' route a visa by any means!). My partner and I were granted a family sponsored 491 in March and planned to have our baby (due in July) over there, flights booked for May. We have now moved our flights to December 30th and I'm not even hopeful that will go ahead. We all just have to stay optomistic and focus on staying safe and healthy :) Australia will still be there when all of this is over. X

Hello all, Was wondering if anyone has received and invitation for the 491 family stream yet or if anyone knows when we can expect to hear something for the first round? I submitted on the 16th November with 90 points and am eagerly awaiting results to understand my chances! MBowser

Hi JustMe - I was wondering for Construction Project Manager skill which language test did you do? General or Academic?