If you’re dreaming of starting a new life in Australia, the Skilled Work Regional Subclass 491 visa might just be the ideal pathway. This visa is designed for skilled workers who want to live, work, and contribute to the growing regional areas of Australia.
With increasing focus on population growth outside major cities, Australia encourages migration to regional areas through the 491 visa – an appealing opportunity for qualified migrants seeking permanent residency in the future.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa Subclass 491, including eligibility requirements, benefits, application process, and tips to improve your chances of success.
What is the Skilled Work Regional Subclass 491 Visa?
The Subclass 491 visa is a provisional visa that allows skilled workers and their families to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years. It is a points-tested visa that requires nomination by either:
- An Australian state or territory government, or
- An eligible family member residing in regional Australia
Once granted, visa holders can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting specific requirements.
Key Benefits of the 491 Visa
The 491 visa isn’t just another temporary visa—it offers numerous advantages that make it attractive for skilled migrants:
- Stay in Australia for 5 years
- Live, work, and study in regional areas
- Travel freely in and out of Australia
- Apply for permanent residency (Subclass 191) after 3 years
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
Additionally, regional areas offer a better quality of life, more affordable housing, and access to growing industries in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education.
Who Can Apply for Subclass 491?
To be eligible for the Skilled Work Regional Subclass 491 visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Occupation must be on a relevant skilled occupation list
- You must have a job listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) applicable to the 491 visa.
- Positive skills assessment
- A valid skills assessment from an approved assessing authority for your occupation.
- Nomination or sponsorship
- You must be nominated by a state/territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
- Points-tested
- You must score at least 65 points on the points test, with factors like age, English proficiency, qualifications, work experience, and partner skills contributing to your score.
- Age
- You must be under 45 years at the time of invitation.
- Competent English
- Minimum IELTS score of 6 in each band or equivalent in other approved tests.
- Health and Character
- You must meet Australia’s health and character requirements.
How Does the Points Test Work?
The points test plays a crucial role in your eligibility. Here’s a quick breakdown of how points are allocated:
- Age (25–32 years): 30 points
- English proficiency (Superior): 20 points
- Work experience (Overseas and Australian): Up to 20 points
- Education (Bachelor’s or higher degree): 15 points
- State nomination or family sponsorship for 491: 15 points
- Partner’s skills: Up to 10 points
Having a higher score increases your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
Applying for the 491 Visa – Step-by-Step Process
- Check occupation eligibility
- Confirm your occupation is listed on the 491 visa occupation list.
- Get a skills assessment
- Apply to a relevant authority for a skills assessment to confirm your qualifications.
- Take an English test
- Complete IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or another accepted test for English proficiency.
- Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Lodge your EOI through Skill Select, indicating your preference for 491 nomination.
- Receive nomination or sponsorship
- Apply for nomination by a state/territory or seek sponsorship from an eligible family member.
- Receive an invitation to apply
- If selected, you’ll be invited to submit a visa application.
- Lodge your 491 visa application
- Submit documents, medical checks, police clearances, and pay the visa fee.
What Are Designated Regional Areas?
Australia’s regional development strategy defines most areas outside of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane as regional. Major cities such as Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart, and Perth are considered regional for immigration purposes.
Living in these regions can open up better visa opportunities, higher nomination chances, and additional migration points.
Processing Time and Visa Fees
As of 2025, the processing time and fee for the 491 visa are:
- Processing Time:
- 75% of applications: around 9 months
- 90% of applications: up to 14 months
- Cost:
- Main applicant: AUD $4,640
- Additional applicants (18+): AUD $2,320
- Under 18: AUD $1,160
Please note, these figures can vary based on individual circumstances.
Pathway to Permanent Residency – Subclass 191
Once you’ve held the 491 visa for at least 3 years, earned a minimum taxable income (currently around AUD $53,900 per year), and complied with visa conditions, you can apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa Subclass 191.
This offers a clear pathway to Australian permanent residency and eventually citizenship, making the 491 visa an attractive long-term option.
Common Challenges and Tips
Applying for the Skilled Work Regional Subclass 491 visa can be complex. Here are some key tips to help you:
- Start with the occupation list – Make sure your job is eligible.
- Aim for a high points score – The higher your score, the better your chance.
- Get your documents in order early – Skills assessments and English tests take time.
- Seek nomination advice – Each state has different nomination requirements.
- Consult a registered migration agent – Especially useful if you’re unsure about your eligibility.
Final Thoughts
The Skilled Work Regional Subclass 491 visa is more than just a visa – it’s an opportunity to live and thrive in Australia’s vibrant and growing regional areas. It not only gives you the chance to contribute your skills where they’re most needed but also sets you on a secure path to permanent residency and Australian citizenship.