Commonwealth of Australia · skilled migration
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
Provisional 5-year regional visa leading to permanent residence via subclass 191.
Last reviewed:
Overview
Subclass 491 is a provisional regional visa. Holders must live, work, and study in designated regional Australia (all areas outside Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane metros). After 3 years on 491 with qualifying income and residence, holders can move to the 191 permanent visa.
Government fees
From AUD 4,640 principal.
Typical duration
5 years provisional, with pathway to permanent residence.
Primary source
Department of Home Affairs — Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) · Department of Home Affairs
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
State nomination or eligible family sponsorship in regional Australia.
Meets points test; 15 points awarded for 491 nomination.
Skills assessment, English, age under 45.
Common blockers
Not planning to reside in regional area.
Typical evidence
Nomination or family-sponsor documents.
Skills assessment.
Application pathway
Step 1
Secure regional nomination or sponsorship
Via state or eligible family member.
Step 2
EOI and ITA
Through SkillSelect.
Step 3
Live and work regionally for 3 years
With qualifying income.
Step 4
Apply for subclass 191 permanent
After meeting 491 commitments.
Also explored by
Compare Commonwealth of Australia with
Related routes
Frequently asked questions
What counts as regional Australia for the 491 visa?
All of Australia except metropolitan Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Most of the country — including Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin, and Canberra — qualifies as regional for this visa.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
Find a regulated advisor →