ÖversättSubclass 491
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
Five-year provisional skilled visa requiring residence in a designated regional area — the strongest current pathway for many candidates.
Key features
- 5-year provisional visa — live, work and study in a designated regional area for the duration.
- +15 points for nomination / sponsorship.
- Two pathways: state / territory nomination, or sponsorship by an eligible relative living in regional Australia.
- Whole family included with full work and study rights.
- Pathway to permanent residence via Subclass 191 after meeting residence and minimum-income requirements.
Eligibility highlights
- Occupation on the relevant Skilled Occupation List and the nominating state's list.
- Positive skills assessment.
- Under 45 at invitation.
- Competent English.
- Genuine intention to live in the designated regional area.
Designated regional areas
- Designated regional Australia includes all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane (and adjacent metropolitan postcodes).
- Includes large cities like Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Canberra, Gold Coast and the whole of Tasmania, the Northern Territory and ACT.
- Confirm postcode eligibility against the current Department of Home Affairs designated regional area list.
How StudyNet supports 491 cases
- Regional strategy — state nomination vs eligible-relative sponsorship.
- EOI lodgement, state application, visa application and post-grant compliance.
- Path-to-191 planning from day one — taxable income tracking and residence diary.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information and refers to the Department of Home Affairs visa categories. It does not replace personalised migration advice. Please book a consultation for case-specific guidance.
