(Last updated Jan 2024)

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The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is a temporary visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. This visa requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible family member residing in a regional area.

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Key Features

• Duration: Valid for 5 years.

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Eligible for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (Subclass 191) after 3 years of living and working in a designated regional area.

• Work and Study Rights: Allows full work and study rights in designated regional areas.

• Family Inclusion: Enables eligible family members to be included in the application.

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Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491), applicants must:

1. Be Invited to Apply

2. Have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.

3. Obtain a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.

4. Achieve at least 65 points on the points test, which evaluates factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, and education.

5. Be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a regional area.

6. Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.

7. Meet the health and character requirements specified by the Department of Home Affairs.

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Benefits of the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

• Regional Living: Encourages skilled workers to contribute to regional areas with opportunities for work and lifestyle.

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Satisfy regional living and work conditions to apply for permanent residency through Subclass 191.

• Family Benefits: Include eligible family members in your application.

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Designated Regional Areas

• Regional areas are defined by specific postcodes. For the latest list of designated regional areas, refer to the Department of Home Affairs Regional Postcode List.

 

* State and territory government agencies have different criteria for granting nominations. Learn more below:

• Australian Capital Territory

• New South Wales

• Northern Territory

• Queensland

• South Australia

• Tasmania

• Victoria

• Western Australia

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Book Consultation with Our Registered Migration Agent!

For personalized advice and assistance with your Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) application, book phone or face-to-face consultation with our experienced migration agents: