Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
A provisional visa for skilled workers willing to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia with a pathway to permanent residency.
Regional Living
Stay in regional Australia for up to 5 years with full work and study rights.
Nomination or Sponsorship
Requires a state/territory nomination or an eligible relative living in a regional area.
Pathway to PR
Apply for the Permanent Residence (Subclass 191) visa after 3 years if conditions are met.
Eligibility Criteria
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
State / Territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship
Be under 45 years at the time of invitation
Score at least 65 points (Subclass 491 adds +15 points)
Positive skills assessment for your occupation
Meet English language requirements
Meet health and character requirements
Points Test Advantages
15 points for state nomination or family sponsorship
10 points for skilled partner
5 points for single applicants or partner with competent English
Extra points for STEM qualifications
Additional points for Australian study requirements
Professional Year Programs may add bonus points
Step-by-Step Application Process
Eligibility Check
Check if your occupation is eligible in a regional area
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment
Submit EOI
Submit Expression of Interest via SkillSelect
Nomination
Apply for state nomination or family sponsorship
Invitation
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Apply Visa
Lodge visa application with documents
Health Checks
Complete health and character checks
Visa Grant
Receive visa grant and move to regional Australia
Processing Times (Approx.)
| Applications | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| 25% of cases | 6 – 8 months |
| 50% of cases | 9 – 12 months |
| 75% of cases | 12 – 15 months |
| 90% of cases | 18 months |
Benefits of the Subclass 491 Visa
Live and work in regional Australia
Include family members in your visa
Access to Medicare (public healthcare)
Lower cost of living compared to major cities
Travel freely in and out of Australia
Pathway to Permanent Residency & Citizenship
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