Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is a points-based visa designed for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or sponsored by an eligible family member in a designated regional area. This visa allows holders to live, work, and study in regional Australia for up to five years, with a pathway to permanent residency through the Skilled Regional (Subclass 191) visa after meeting specific residency and work requirements.
With this visa, you can:
- Stay in Australia for five years.
- Work and study only in regional areas.
- Travel freely in and out of Australia.
- Apply for permanent residency after three years.
This visa is ideal for skilled professionals looking for long-term career opportunities in regional Australia while working towards permanent residency.
Who is eligible for the Subclass 491 visa?
To be eligible, you must:
Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
Be nominated by a state or sponsored by an eligible family member in a regional area.
Meet the minimum points requirement (usually 65 points).
Have a valid Skills Assessment for your nominated occupation.
Be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
Meet English language proficiency requirements.
Fulfill the health and character requirements.
Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
Be nominated by a state or sponsored by an eligible family member in a regional area.
Meet the minimum points requirement (usually 65 points).
Have a valid Skills Assessment for your nominated occupation.
Be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
Meet English language proficiency requirements.
Fulfill the health and character requirements.
What is considered a regional area for the 491 visa?
All of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane is classified as a regional area for this visa. Popular regional areas include Adelaide, Perth, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Hobart, and Darwin.
Can I apply for permanent residency with a 491 visa?
Yes, after holding the Subclass 491 visa for three years, you can apply for permanent residency through the Skilled Regional (Subclass 191) visa, provided you meet the required income and residency conditions.
How do I earn points for the 491 visa?
Points are awarded based on age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and state nomination or family sponsorship. Additional points can be earned for factors like regional study, partner skills, and having a STEM qualification.
Can I include family members in my 491 visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your application, and they will have the same visa conditions as you.
Can I change employers while on a 491 visa?
Yes, but you must continue working only in a designated regional area to remain eligible for permanent residency.
How long does the 491 visa take to process?
Processing times vary, but most applications are processed within 6 to 12 months, depending on individual circumstances and the state nomination process.
What happens if I don’t meet the permanent residency requirements?
If you do not meet the three-year work and income requirements, you will not be eligible to apply for permanent residency under Subclass 191. You must either renew your visa (if eligible) or explore other visa options.
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