Skilled Work Regional
Provisional Visa
Your Pathway to Australia. Live, work, and study in designated regional areas for up to five years with a direct route to permanent residency.
Unlock Opportunities in
Regional Australia
If you’re a skilled professional aiming to settle in Australia but facing challenges with metro-based permanent residency, the Subclass 491 visa offers a clear alternative. It supports skilled migration into designated regional areas, where demand is high and opportunities are growing.
This provisional visa allows you to live, work, and study in regional Australia for up to five years. After just three years of meeting key conditions, including income thresholds, you may become eligible for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
Did You Know?
A state nomination provides an automatic 15 points towards your total score, making this subclass one of the most accessible for skilled migrants.
Benefits of Subclass 491
Direct PR Pathway
5-year visa with a path to PR (Subclass 191) after 3 years.
Include Family
Include your partner and dependent children in the same application.
Work Freedom
Open work rights across any job in regional areas.
Lower Competition
Lower points requirement compared to 189 or 190 visas.
Main Applicant Criteria
Meet these specific requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs to qualify for the 491 visa.
Nomination/Sponsorship
Nominated by a state government or sponsored by an eligible relative in a regional area.
Occupation List
Your occupation must be on the relevant legislative skilled occupation list.
Skills Assessment
Hold a positive skills assessment from an approved certifying authority.
Points Test
Score at least 65 points on the General Skilled Migration points test.
Age Limit
Must be under 45 years of age at the time of your official invitation.
English Level
Minimum IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent (Competent English).
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Skills Assessment
Confirm occupation on list and obtain a positive skills assessment.
Submit EOI
Use SkillSelect to register interest with your points and occupation.
State Nomination
Apply for a state or territory nomination to gain extra 15 points.
Visa Invitation
Receive an official invitation based on occupation demand and points.
Visa Lodge
Apply online via ImmiAccount with all supporting documents.
Maximise Your Score
with the Points Test
The Subclass 491 visa uses a points-based selection system. You need at least 65 points to be eligible, but a higher score improves your chance of receiving an invitation.
Expert Tips to Boost Score
- Achieve Superior English (IELTS 8/PTE 79) for 20 points.
- Claim Partner Points if your spouse meets criteria.
- Study at least 2 years in a Regional Area for bonus points.
- Gain professional experience in your Nominated Occupation.
"State nomination providing 15 points is often the deciding factor in securing an invitation."
Visa Obligations
Path to Permanent Residency
Subclass 191 Requirements:
- Hold 491 visa for 3 years
- Meet minimum taxable income (currently AUD 53,900/year)
- Complied with regional living conditions
- No further points test required
Subsequent
Entrant Pathway
Bring your family to Australia. Partners and dependent children can join you under the same visa terms.
Entrant Obligations:
Family members must meet health and character requirements. Their visa remains valid until the primary applicant's visa expiry.
Inquire for Family MembersWhy GoAustraliaGo for Your 491 Visa?
"With regional rules changing frequently, up-to-date guidance can make the difference between delay and success. GoAustraliaGo makes sure you are always one step ahead."
Start Your Regional Pathway