About the Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is a 5-year provisional visa for skilled workers who live and work in regional Australia. It provides 15 bonus points toward the points test and offers a clear pathway to permanent residence through subclass 191 after 3 years.
Regional areas include all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. This includes cities like Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin, Newcastle, Wollongong, Geelong, Gold Coast and many regional centres.
Eligibility
- Under 45 years at invitation
- Occupation on a relevant regional occupation list
- Positive skills assessment
- 65 points minimum (including 15 bonus points)
- State/territory nomination OR family sponsorship from eligible relative in regional area
- Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band)
Regional Areas Defined
Regional Australia includes all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane CBDs. Major regional cities include:
- Perth (WA) — capital city, regional status
- Adelaide (SA) — capital city, regional status
- Hobart (TAS) — capital city, regional status
- Darwin (NT) — capital city, regional status
- Canberra (ACT) — capital city, regional status
- Newcastle, Wollongong, Central Coast (NSW)
- Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo (VIC)
- Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Townsville (QLD)
Pathway to Permanent Residence
After holding subclass 491 for 3 years and meeting income and residency requirements, you can apply for the subclass 191 Permanent Residence visa. Requirements:
- 3 years of holding the 491 visa
- Lived in regional area for at least 3 years
- Minimum taxable income of AUD 53,900 per year for 3 years (indexed)
- Complied with all visa conditions
Benefits
- 15 bonus points toward points test
- Live and work in regional Australia
- Pathway to permanent residence after 3 years
- Medicare access
- Family members included in application
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Perth considered regional for 491?
Yes. Perth is designated as regional Australia for the purposes of subclass 491.
What if I move to Sydney during my 491?
You would lose eligibility for subclass 191 PR. You must live in regional Australia for the full 3 years.
Apply for 491
Phone: +61 (03) 9670 7567