Live, Work & Build a Future in Regional Australia
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa – Subclass 491 allows skilled professionals and their families to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years. It also opens a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa, provided all requirements are met.
What Is Subclass 491?
This provisional visa is designed to boost skilled migration to regional areas of Australia. It supports economic growth and community development outside major cities while giving skilled migrants and their families an opportunity to build a long-term future in Australia.
Key Features of the 491 Visa:
- Stay in Australia for up to 5 years
- Live, work, and study only in designated regional areas
- Travel in and out of Australia freely while the visa is valid
- Apply for permanent residency via Subclass 191 after 3 years (from 16 November 2022)
- Include eligible family members in your visa application
Designated Regional Areas:
Visa holders must live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. These are locations outside of major metropolitan cities and are designed to promote balanced migration across the country.
Note: If your nomination is withdrawn, your visa may not be granted.
Pathway to Permanent Residency:
After holding the Subclass 491 visa for at least 3 years, and meeting income and residency requirements, you may apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa – Subclass 191.
Until then, Subclass 491 holders cannot:
- Apply for a Subclass 820 Partner visa
Be granted any of the following:
- Subclass 132 (Business Talent)
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
- Subclass 188 (Business Innovation and Investment)
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent)
- Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated)
- Subclass 858 (Global Talent)
Include Your Family:
You can include your partner and dependent children in your visa application. Family members must meet health and character requirements.
- Add them at the time of initial application, or
- Add dependent children later (before a decision is made on your application)
Cost of the 491 Visa
- Main applicant: From AUD 4,770.00
- Additional applicants: Extra charges for each accompanying family member
- Second installment (if applicable): AUD 4,890.00 for applicants 18+ with less than functional English
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the Subclass 491 visa, you must:
- Be nominated by an Australian state or territory, or sponsored by an eligible relative residing in a regional area
- Score at least 65 points on the points test
- Have an occupation listed on a relevant Skilled Occupation List
- Have your skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority
- Demonstrate atleast Competent English
- Meet health and character requirements
How PassX Immigration Can Help?
At PassX Immigration, we make your journey to Australia through the Subclass 491 visa smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
With thousands of successful immigration stories and the support of Registered MARA agents, our team of experienced consultants provides expert guidance at every step. We specialize in regional migration pathways and offer premium, personalized support to help you and your family work, live, and settle in Australia’s designated regional areas.
Our premium services include:
- Tailored free eligibility assessment
- Guidance for state/territory nomination or family sponsorship
- Full support for skill assessments and documentation
- Preparation and submission of your visa application
- Strategic planning for your permanent residency pathway (Subclass 191)
Get Started Today!
Are you a skilled professional planning to live and work in regional Australia? Or are you seeking a better lifestyle for your family?
PassX Immigration is ready to support your goals with unmatched expertise.
Contact us now to schedule your free consultation (Whatsapp: +918939138886) and take the first step toward your Australian dream.
FAQ :
Q1. How many years can I stay in Australia on a Subclass 491 visa?
You can stay in Australia for up to 5 years from the date the visa is granted.
Q2. Can I apply for permanent residency after holding a Subclass 491 visa?
Yes. After holding the 491 visa for at least 3 years and meeting the income and residency requirements, you may be eligible to apply for Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa.
Q3. Can I live anywhere in Australia with this visa?
No. You must live, work, and study only in designated regional areas as specified in your nomination.
Q4. Can I include my family members in the application?
Yes. You can include your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children in your visa application.
Q5. Do I need a sponsor or nomination for this visa?
Yes. You must be nominated by an Australian state/territory or sponsored by an eligible family member who lives in a designated regional area.
Q6. What are the basic eligibility requirements?
You must:
- Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
- Score 65+ points on the points test
- Have a positive skills assessment
- Meet English language, health, and character requirements
Q7. Can I apply for a partner visa while holding a 491 visa?
No. You cannot apply for or be granted certain permanent visas (including Partner Subclass 820) unless you have held the Subclass 491 for at least 3 years.
Q8. What is the cost of the Subclass 491 visa?
Primary applicant: From AUD 4,770
Additional charges apply for each dependent
A second instalment of AUD 4,890 may be required for dependents 18+ with less than functional English
Q9. Can I travel outside Australia while holding this visa?
Yes. You can travel in and out of Australia as many times as you want while your visa is valid.
Q10. What happens if my nomination is withdrawn?
If your state/territory nomination or family sponsorship is withdrawn, your visa may not be granted. It’s essential to maintain your nomination status throughout the application process.
