Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
Choose your pathway to regional Australia through the Skilled Work Regional Visa (491). Two streams available: State/Territory Nominated and Family Sponsored.
Select Your 491 Visa Stream
Choose based on your nomination or sponsorship eligibility
State/Territory Nominated Stream
Skilled workers with occupations on state lists
Processing
5-7 months
Cost
$4,910 AUD
Success
93%
- State or territory government nomination
- 15 bonus points for regional commitment
- Broader occupation lists than 189/190
- Processing: 5-7 months
Family Sponsored Stream
Those with eligible family in regional Australia
Processing
8-10 months
Cost
$4,910 AUD
Success
91%
- Sponsored by eligible family member
- 15 bonus points for regional commitment
- Family must live in regional area
- Processing: 8-10 months
Stream Comparison
| Feature | State/Territory Nominated | Family Sponsored |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsor Required | State/Territory Government | Eligible Family Member |
| Points Bonus | 15 points | 15 points |
| Occupation List | State-specific lists | Combined occupation list |
| Processing Time | 5-7 months | 8-10 months |
| Location Flexibility | Nominating state initially | Sponsor's regional area |
| Application Method | State portal then EOI | Direct EOI |
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
The 491 visa opens doors to Australian permanent residency through regional contribution, offering two specialized streams with significant advantages over metropolitan pathways.
Available Streams
Why Choose the 491 Visa?
The 15-Point Advantage
Both streams provide a crucial 15-point bonus, making this visa achievable with just 50 base points compared to the 85+ often needed for the 189 visa.
Expanded Regional Definition
“Regional” now includes major cities:
- Perth - Western Australia’s capital
- Adelaide - South Australia’s capital
- Gold Coast - Queensland’s second-largest city
- Canberra - Australia’s capital
- Newcastle, Wollongong, Geelong - Major regional centers
Quick Stream Comparison
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Both streams lead to the same outcome:
- Years 1-3: Live and work in regional Australia
- Income Requirement: Earn $53,900+ annually
- After 3 Years: Apply for 191 permanent visa
- No Additional Tests: Simple transition to PR
- Full PR Rights: Move anywhere after 191 grant
Not Sure Which Stream?
Quick Eligibility Check
Do you have an eligible family member in regional Australia? → Consider Family Sponsored Stream
Is your occupation on state/territory lists? → Choose State/Territory Nominated Stream
Need both options assessed? → Get Professional Advice
Regional Living Benefits
- Lower cost of living than Sydney/Melbourne
- Less competition for jobs
- Strong community connections
- Better work-life balance
- Access to nature and outdoor activities
- Growing infrastructure and services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Skilled Work Regional Visa 491?
The 491 is a 5-year provisional visa for skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia, with two streams: state/territory nomination or family sponsorship.
Which stream should I choose?
Choose state/territory nomination if your occupation is on state lists. Choose family sponsorship if you have eligible family in regional Australia.
Do both streams provide the same points bonus?
Yes, both streams provide 15 bonus points toward the 65 points requirement.
Can I switch between streams?
No, you must apply through one stream based on your eligibility at the time of application.
What areas count as regional?
All of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. This includes Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, and Canberra.
Ready to Start Your Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) Application?
Our MARA registered agents can help you choose the right stream and guide you through the entire process.