Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

Overview

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is designed to address skill shortages in regional Australia. It allows you and your family to live, work, and study in designated regional areas for five years. After holding this visa for three years and meeting specific income and residency requirements, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation, have a suitable skills assessment for an occupation on a relevant skilled occupation list, and score at least 65 points on the points test. You must also be nominated by an Australian state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.

Application steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Check Eligibility

   Ensure you meet the age, skills, and points requirements.

2. 2

   Step 2: Skills Assessment

   Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.

3. 3

   Step 3: Expression of Interest (EOI)

   Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system.

4. 4

   Step 4: Nomination/Sponsorship

   Secure nomination from a state/territory or sponsorship from an eligible relative.

5. 5

   Step 5: Invitation

   Wait to receive an invitation to apply for the visa.

6. 6

   Step 6: Lodge Application

   Submit your visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.

Required documents

• Valid passport
• Positive skills assessment
• English language test results
• Proof of state/territory nomination or family sponsorship
• Evidence of work experience and qualifications
• Health and character clearances

PR, family, language & arrival

Common pitfalls

• Failing to maintain residency in a designated regional area
• Incorrectly claiming points in the EOI
• Letting the skills assessment expire before the invitation
• Misunderstanding the specific regional requirements of the nominating state