Skilled Work Regional Provisional Visa Subclass 491
Allows skilled workers and their families to live, work, and study in regional Australia for up to five years, offering a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa.
Overview
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) allows skilled workers to live, work and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years. It operates on a points-tested system and requires either nomination by a state/territory government or sponsorship by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area. Holders may be eligible to apply for permanent residence after 3 years (typically via subclass 191) once income and compliance criteria are met.
Do You Have What It Takes?
- ✔ Nominated by a state/territory agency OR sponsored by an eligible relative in a designated regional area
- ✔ Occupation on a relevant skilled occupation list
- ✔ Suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation
- ✔ Invited to apply through SkillSelect
- ✔ Meet the points test (minimum 65, higher is competitive)
- ✔ Meet age (generally under 45 at invitation), English, health and character requirements
Why Choose This Path?
- Live and work in designated regional Australia with full work rights
- Include spouse/partner and dependent children (including as subsequent entrants)
- Gain Australian work experience to build points toward PR
- Access pathway to permanent residence (subclass 191) after 3 years meeting income and compliance rules
- Travel in and out of Australia while the visa is valid
Your Roadmap to Success
- Check eligibility: occupation list, points (65+), age under 45, English.
- Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority.
- Sit an approved English test (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL etc.).
- Research state/territory nomination criteria or confirm eligible relative sponsor.
- Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect and indicate regions/states.
- Apply for state/territory nomination or provide evidence of eligible relative sponsorship.
- Receive invitation to apply for subclass 491.
- Lodge visa application via ImmiAccount within the specified timeframe and pay fees.
- Complete health checks, provide police certificates, and upload supporting documents.
- Await decision; once granted, live and work in designated regional areas and maintain compliance.
Visa Duration
Initial Duration
Up to 5 years
Extension Duration
Not extendable
Permanent Residency
After 3 Years
Visa Pathways
Pathway to Permanent Residence (subclass 191)
After holding the 491 and living/working in designated regional areas while meeting the taxable income threshold for at least 3 years and complying with all conditions, you may be eligible to apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191). After PR, you can live anywhere in Australia and later pursue citizenship when eligible.
Processing times
Costs
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base Application Fee | AUD 4,910.00 | Primary application fee |
| Additional Applicant (18+) | AUD 2,455.00 | For each additional applicant 18 years and over |
| Additional Applicant (Under 18) | AUD 1,230.00 | For each additional applicant under 18 years |
Got Questions? We've Got Answers
What is the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)?
It’s a provisional visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia for up to 5 years.
Who can sponsor me for the 491 visa?
Either an Australian state or territory government or an eligible family member living in a regional area.
Can I apply for PR after the 491 visa?
Yes, you can apply for PR through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting 3-year work and income requirements.
Is the 491 visa points-tested?
Yes, it requires you to meet the points test threshold (usually 65 points or more).
Can I include family members in my 491 visa?
Yes, eligible family members can be included in your application.
Can I move to a major city while on a 491 visa?
No, you must live, work, and study only in designated regional areas.
What is the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)?
It’s a provisional visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia for up to 5 years.
Who can sponsor me for the 491 visa?
Either an Australian state or territory government or an eligible family member living in a regional area.
Can I apply for PR after the 491 visa?
Yes, you can apply for PR through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting 3-year work and income requirements.
Is the 491 visa points-tested?
Yes, it requires you to meet the points test threshold (usually 65 points or more).
Can I include family members in my 491 visa?
Yes, eligible family members can be included in your application.
Can I move to a major city while on a 491 visa?
No, you must live, work, and study only in designated regional areas.
Request Call Back
Get Expert Help
Melbourne VIC 3000
Adelaide SA 5000