Do you want to work and live in regional Australia?

You can, with the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491). It offers temporary residence for up to 5 years. You can then apply for permanent residence through the Subclass 191 visa.

This Arch Migration guide breaks down all of this into straightforward steps: eligibility, application, benefits, and tips.

 

What Is the Subclass 491 Visa?

The Subclass 491 is a provisional visa.

It permits you to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia.

It was created to help develop regions and provide a solution for skilled worker shortages.

After meeting the visa requirements, you can apply for permanent residency (Subclass 191).

Learn more: [Complete Guide to Skilled Visas in Australia | Arch Migration]

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for a 491 visa, you must meet some eligibility requirements

General Requirements

  • Be aged less than 45 at invitation.
  • Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
  • Receive a positive skills assessment.
  • Achieve a minimum of 65 points on SkillSelect (points test).
  • Be nominated by a state/territory OR sponsored by a family member in a regional area.
  • Meet English language requirements (minimum IELTS 6 / Competent English).

Regional Sponsorship

You may be sponsored by:

  • A state or territory government (State Nomination), or
  • A skilled relative who lives in a designated regional area (Family Sponsorship)

How to Apply Step by Step

1. Check Your Occupation

Make sure your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). Also, make sure your qualifications and experience are of Australian standards.

2. Get Your Skills Assessed

Lodge your documents with the relevant assessing authority. This ensures your skills are of Australian standards.

3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Use SkillSelect to show interest in the 491 visa. Indicate which regional locations you can settle in. Invitations are given according to points and sponsorship.

4. Get Nomination or Sponsorship

You can get:

  • State Nomination by a state/territory, or
  • Family Sponsorship by a relative

5. Submit Your Visa Application

Apply within 60 days after being invited. Give:

Nomination or sponsorship proof

Police clearance

Medical check-up

English test result

Visa Rules and Stay Period

Length: For up to 5 years

Work and Study: Only in regional areas

Path to PR: Live and work in a designated regional area for 3 years and meet minimum taxable income requirements to apply for Subclass 191

Processing Time

Processing: Usually 8–12 months

Why Obtain a 491 Visa?

Advantages for You

Live and work in regional Australia

Access Medicare

Include your family members in your visa

Earn points for Subclass 191

Obtain 15 extra points for regional nomination

Life in Regional Areas

Reduced cost of living

Better quality of life

More job opportunities in healthcare, IT, construction, and education

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Select the Incorrect Area

Every state has different rules and occupation lists. Check carefully.

2. Inadequate Sponsorship Proof

Family sponsorship must meet all rules.

3. Ignore Income Rules

You must earn minimum taxable income for 3 years to get Subclass 191 PR.

Why Use Arch Migration?

We guide skilled workers from start to finish.

Check eligibility and points

Prepare state sponsorship or nomination

Lodge visa applications

Our assistance helps you meet requirements, avoid mistakes, and be one step closer to PR.

Learn more: [Complete Guide to Skilled Visas in Australia | Arch Migration]

 

FAQs

1. Can I bring my family?

Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children.

2. Can I move to a city on a 491 visa?

No. You can only work, live, and study in designated regional areas.

3. How long before I can apply for PR?

Live and work in a regional area for 3 years before Subclass 191.

What happens if my sponsor moves?

You still need to comply with the regional requirements.

5. Can I change jobs?

Yes, but your new job needs to be in a regional area.

Final Thoughts

The Subclass 491 visa is ideal for skilled workers who would like to settle in regional Australia.

It gives you work opportunities, regional life, and a pathway to PR. 

Your application is sound, straightforward, and poised for success with Arch Migration.