Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

The Subclass 491 is a provisional visa for skilled workers sponsored by a state/territory government or an eligible family member. It allows you to live, work, and study in a designated regional area for up to 5 years. After meeting conditions, you can apply for PR via the Subclass 191 visa.

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Important Notice: The content on this page is for general information only. Australian visa policies and requirements are subject to change at any time. Always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most current and accurate information.

Who Is This Visa For?

Are willing to live and work in a designated regional area

Have an eligible family member in a regional area, or

Are nominated by a state or territory government for a regional area

Want an additional 15 points for regional nomination

Plan to transition to permanent residency

Basic Requirements

Regional Sponsorship

•State/territory government nomination OR
•Sponsorship by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area

Age

•Must be under 45 years of age when invited

English Language

•Competent English is the minimum requirement
•Higher scores earn additional points

Skills Assessment

•Must have a positive skills assessment

EOI Score

•Minimum of 65 points (including 15 regional points)
•Higher scores improve invitation chances

Application Process

Skills Assessment

Complete skills assessment for your occupation

English Test

Complete an approved English language test

Get Sponsorship

Apply for state/territory nomination or family sponsorship

Expression of Interest

Submit EOI through SkillSelect

Receive Invitation

Wait for invitation to apply

Submit Application

Lodge your visa application

Live in Regional Area

Meet regional living and working requirements

Apply for PR

Apply for Subclass 191 visa after meeting conditions

Other Visa Options

189

189 Independent

Independent permanent visa

190

190 State Nominated

State-sponsored permanent visa

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 491 visa permanent residency?

The 491 is a temporary visa (valid for 5 years). After meeting the conditions, you can apply for the Subclass 191 visa to obtain permanent residency.

What are the requirements to transition from 491 to PR?

Typically requires living and working in a regional area for 3 years and meeting minimum income requirements. Please refer to official policies for specifics.

Which areas are considered regional?

The definition of regional areas is broad. Most areas outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are considered regional.

Does the 491 visa have income requirements?

When transitioning to PR, you must meet minimum taxable income requirements. Please refer to the latest official policy for specific amounts.

Can I apply for 491 through family sponsorship?

Yes, if your family member lives in a designated regional area and meets sponsorship criteria.

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Official Information

Always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most current visa information.

Visit Official Page

Check Your Eligibility

Use our PR Points Calculator to estimate your EOI score and see which visa options might work for you.

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