Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The government prioritises regional streams to fill skill shortages outside major cities, making this pathway comparatively faster than Subclass 189.
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What is the Subclass 491 Visa?
The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa is a 5-year temporary visa designed for skilled workers willing to live, work, and study in regional Australia. It provides an excellent pathway to permanent residency for applicants who may not score high enough for a Subclass 189 or 190 invitation — because the 491 attracts a 15-point bonus in the points test. There are two streams: State/Territory Government Nominated (similar to the 190 process) and Family Sponsored Regional (sponsored by an eligible family member living in regional Australia). After 3 years of living and working in a regional area, 491 holders can apply for the permanent Subclass 191 visa.
Who is Eligible?
1
Occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list for your state or region
2
Score at least 65 points (the 491's +15 bonus points help mid-range scorers)
3
Be under 45 years of age at time of invitation
4
Meet competent English language requirement
5
Have a positive skills assessment
6
Be nominated by a state/territory government OR sponsored by an eligible family member in a regional area
7
Genuinely intend to live and work in a designated regional area of Australia
8
Meet health and character requirements
Step-by-Step Application Process
1
Calculate Your Points
Use the Department of Home Affairs points calculator to estimate your total score across age, English, work experience, education, and other factors.
2
Choose Your Stream
Decide between State/Territory Nominated stream or Family Sponsored Regional stream, depending on your circumstances.
3
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the applicable assessing body for your occupation.
4
English Language Test
Sit IELTS, PTE Academic, or an equivalent accepted test and meet minimum scores.
5
Submit EOI via SkillSelect
Lodge an Expression of Interest online, indicating preference for the 491 visa and your state/territory choice.
6
Receive Invitation to Apply
After nomination/sponsorship is confirmed, receive an ITA from the Department of Home Affairs.
7
Health & Police Checks
Complete medical examinations and police clearance certificates as required.
8
Lodge Visa Application (60 days)
Submit a complete application via ImmiAccount within 60 days, attaching all supporting documents.
9
Visa Decision
A case officer reviews your application. Additional documents may be requested, typically within the first 3 months of lodgement.
Required Documents
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Valid Passport
-
Skills Assessment Outcome
-
Degrees / Transcripts
-
English Test Results
-
State Nomination Approval Letter
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Reference Letters from Employers
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Tax Records
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Health & Character
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Medical Examination Report
-
Police Clearances
Note : Additional documents may be requested based on profile assessment
Processing Time
7–18 Months
Visa Application Fees
| Applicant Type | Fees |
|---|---|
Primary Applicant |
AUD 4,770 |
Additional Applicant – 18 years or over |
AUD 2,385 |
Additional Applicant – Under 18 years |
AUD 1,195 |
Skills Assessment (approx.) |
AUD 500 – 2,000 |
English Language Test |
AUD 250 – 400 |
Note : Fees are subject to change as per government updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Subclass 491 visa in Australia?
The Skilled Work Regional Visa Subclass 491 is a temporary regional visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or sponsored by an eligible family member living in regional Australia. It offers a pathway to permanent residency.
