Skilled Regional Visa - Subclass 491 Visa
The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa is a provisional visa designed for skilled workers seeking to live and work in Australia's regional areas. This visa aims to address skill shortages in regional communities by incentivizing skilled migrants to settle outside major cities.
To qualify, applicants must either be nominated by an Australian state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area. The visa grants holders up to five years' stay in Australia, with a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa upon meeting specific work and residence requirements in a regional area.
By supporting economic growth in regional communities, the 491 visa offers skilled workers an opportunity to build their future in Australia, enjoying unique work and lifestyle opportunities outside metropolitan areas.
Benefits of the Subclass 491 Visa
Live and Work in Regional Australia
This visa allows you and your family members to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years.
Multiple Entry
You can travel to and from Australia as many times as you wish while the visa is valid.
Family Inclusion
You can include family members in your application, giving them the same rights and obligations under the visa.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The Subclass 491 (Permanent Residence - Skilled Regional Visa) visa provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa, provided you meet residency and income requirements.
Subclass 491 Visa
MAIN REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for the Subclass 491 visa, applicants must meet the following key criteria:
Occupation List
Your occupation must be listed on a relevant skilled occupation list for the visa.
Nomination or Sponsorship
You must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government or be sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.
Skills Assessment
Obtain a valid skills assessment for your nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority.
Points Test
Score a minimum of 65 points on the Australian points test, which factors in age, English proficiency, work experience, and education.
Age
Be under 45 years of age at the time of receiving an invitation to apply.
English Language Proficiency
Demonstrate competent English by completing an approved language test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
Health and Character
Meet Australian health and character standards, including health checks and police clearances.
Steps to apply for the Subclass 491 Visa
Verify Eligibility
Ensure your occupation is on the relevant occupation list and that you meet all eligibility requirements, including skills assessment and points score.
1
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Lodge an EOI in SkillSelect, detailing your skills, qualifications, and experience.
2
Obtain Nomination or Sponsorship
Wait to be nominated by an Australian state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a regional area.
3
Receive an Invitation to Apply
Once your EOI is selected, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
4
Submit Your Visa Application
Submit your visa application online, providing all required documents, including skills assessment, English test results, and nomination or sponsorship documents.
5
Complete Health and Character Checks
Undergo health and character checks as required by the Department of Home Affairs.
6
Await a Visa Decision
Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your application and make a decision.
7
Current Processing Time: Subclass 491 Visa
When it comes to the processing timeline, several factors can impact your application. These include the quality of submitted documents and the volume of applications received by the Department.
| 50% applications are processed in | 15 Months |
|---|---|
| 90% applications are processed in | 22 Months |
Current Allocation for Financial Year 2024-2025
| State | Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visa |
|---|---|
| ACT | 800 |
| NSW | 2,000 |
| NT | 800 |
| QLD | 800 |
| SA | 800 |
| TAS | 760 |
| VIC | 2,000 |
| WA | 2,000 |
| Total | 9760 |
Frequently
Asked
Questions
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You can be in or outside Australia, but not in immigration clearance when you apply for the visa and when we decide on your application. Also, if you apply in Australia, you must hold a substantive visa or a subclass 010 Bridging A visa, a subclass 020 Bridging B visa, or a subclass 030 Bridging C visa, otherwise, your application will not be valid.
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A visa for skilled individuals nominated by a state or territory government to live and work in Australia’s regional areas.
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Your visa conditions allow you to live, work, and study exclusively within designated regional areas of Australia.
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It is legally possible to add your partner to your Subclass 491 visa after it has been granted; however, this will be subject to thorough review.