Skilled Designated Area Sponsored visa (subclass 496)

The Skilled Designated Area Sponsored visa (subclass 496) is no longer accepting new applications as of September 1, 2007. However, if you are interested in migrating to Australia, you may be eligible to apply for the Skilled — Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489).

If you already hold the Skilled Designated Area Sponsored visa (subclass 496) and your family members wish to join you in Australia, they may be able to apply for the Skilled — Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489).

Visa applicants

If you need to update any information regarding your visa application, please get in touch with the Adelaide General Skilled Migration (GSM) processing centre.

Visa holders

As a visa holder, you can utilize the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) service to check your visa details and entitlements free of charge.

How long does this visa last?

The Skilled Designated Area Sponsored visa (subclass 496) is valid for a period of four years from the date of your initial entry into Australia.

What can you do with this visa?

With the Skilled Designated Area Sponsored visa (subclass 496), you and your dependent family members who also hold this visa can:

• Live, work, and study in Australia
• Become eligible to apply for permanent residence
• Travel to and from Australia multiple times as long as the visa remains valid

It is important to note that you will not have access to Medicare, family assistance, or social security benefits.

Your obligations

As a visa holder and as part of your family, it is essential to comply with all visa conditions and Australian laws.

Reporting changes in circumstances

If there are any changes in your circumstances, it is your responsibility to inform the relevant authorities. This includes changes such as a new residential address, a new passport, or any significant life events such as pregnancy, birth, divorce, separation, marriage, de facto relationship, or death within your family.

You can report changes in your circumstances through ImmiAccount. If you are unable to use ImmiAccount, alternative forms are available:

• Form 929 - Change of address and/or passport details: Use this form if you change your address or passport.
• Form 1022 - Notification of changes in circumstances: Use this form for any other changes in your circumstances.

It is crucial to provide details of any new passport issued to you to avoid significant delays at the airport and potential denial of permission to board your plane.