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The Regional Work Visa (Subclass 491), officially called the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, allows skilled foreign workers to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia.
It is a points-tested, employer or state-sponsored visa designed to address skill shortages outside major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. The visa offers a pathway to permanent residency, making it a popular option for professionals seeking long-term settlement in Australia.
What Does the Subclass 491 Visa Allow?
The visa is valid for 5 years and gives holders the right to:
• Live, work, and study in regional Australia
• Travel freely in and out of Australia during validity
• Include eligible family members
• Apply for permanent residence later (Subclass 191)
However, visa holders must stay and work only in designated regional areas.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements.
You generally need to:
• Be under 45 years of age
• Have an occupation on Australia’s skilled occupation list
• Receive nomination from a state/territory government or sponsorship from an eligible relative in regional
Australia
• Pass the points test (minimum 65 points)
• Have a positive skills assessment
• Meet English language requirements
• Meet health and character checks
Meeting higher points improves your chances of receiving an invitation.
Nomination or Sponsorship Options
Applicants must be supported through one of two pathways:
State or Territory Nomination
A regional state government nominates you based on local skill shortages and workforce needs.
Family Sponsorship
An eligible relative living in a designated regional area sponsors your application.
Both options allow you to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
Points System Explained
Your eligibility is assessed through a points-based system that considers:
• Age
• English proficiency
• Education level
• Skilled work experience
• Regional study or qualifications
• Partner skills
Higher qualifications and work experience typically increase your score.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
One of the biggest advantages of Subclass 491 is its clear route to permanent residency.
After 3 years, you may apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa – Subclass 191, provided you:
• Lived and worked in a regional area
• Met minimum income requirements
• Complied with visa conditions
This allows you to stay permanently in Australia without regional restrictions.
Benefits of the 491 Visa
The visa offers several long-term advantages:
• Faster invitations compared to metropolitan visas
• Lower competition in regional occupations
• Family inclusion
• Access to Medicare (in many cases)
• Clear PR pathway
• Strong job demand in healthcare, engineering, IT, trades, and education
Conclusion
The Regional Work Visa (Subclass 491) is an excellent option for skilled professionals willing to live outside Australia’s major cities. With regional sponsorship, part-time flexibility, and a direct route to permanent residence, it provides both career growth and long-term stability.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Australian immigration rules and occupation lists may change. Always consult official government sources or licensed migration agents before applying.
January 30, 2026
