SKILLED WORK REGIONAL (PROVISIONAL) VISA
SUBCLASS 491
The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa is a points-tested temporary visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area. It allows visa holders to live, work, and study in regional Australia for up to five years, with a pathway to permanent residence through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting eligibility criteria. Applicants must have an occupation on a relevant skilled list and be invited to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Disclaimers: While we strive to ensure the information on this website is accurate and up to date, the information provided on this website is intended as a general guide and was accurate at time of publication.. Migration laws and policies can change frequently. We recommend visiting the Department of Home Affairs' website for the most current information.
The visa requirements listed on this website are general guidelines and represent the most common criteria. However, additional requirements or different criteria may apply based on individual circumstances. It is important to consult with an immigration professional or the relevant authorities to ensure you meet all specific requirements for your situation.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
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You must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
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You must have a suitable skills assessment at time of invitation to apply for the visa
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You must have Competent English
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You must be under 45 at time of invitation to apply for the visa
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You must satisfy the points test (scoring 65 points or more)
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You must lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI), be nominated by a state or territory and be invited to apply for the visa
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You must meet health and character requirements
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You must apply for the visa within 60 days from the date you are invited to apply for the visa
WHAT THIS VISA ALLOWS YOU TO DO
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Live, work and study in a designated regional area in Australia for the duration of the visa, usually 5 years
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Travel to and from Australia during the validity of the travel facility of the visa
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Apply for permanent residence through subclass 191, if eligible
IMPORTANT INFORMATION*
Subclass 491 visa holders should be aware that:
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They are unable to apply for certain visas unless they have held the subclass 491 for at least 3 years
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They must comply with all conditions imposed on the visa applicant when the visa was granted
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They must obey Australian law
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FEES AND CHARGES
Government Visa Application Charges
First Instalment
Base visa application charge for a Subclass 491 visa is of AUD4,910.00​.
Additional applicant charge for those who are 18 or over is of AUD2,455.00
Additional applicant charge for those under 18 is of AUD1,230.00
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Second Instalment
Applicants 18 and over without Functional English: AUD4,89000
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Please check the Department of Home Affairs' website for the latest information relating to visa application charges
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Please note that the visa application charge is the application fee charged by the Department to assess the application. Any professional fees or other services such as police checks, health examinations, translations, etc., are charged separately.
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View our schedule of fees for professional services here.
PROCESSING TIMES
Processing time for a Subclass 491 visa application is usually between 18 and 26 months, depending on the individual circumstances and completeness of the application.
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More information may be found at the Department's website.