Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
A five-year provisional visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory or sponsored by an eligible relative to live and work in designated regional Australia, with a possible permanent-residence pathway.
Core requirements
You must be under 45 when invited to apply.
The nominated occupation must be on the combined skilled occupation list relevant to subclass 491.
A suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation is required and must meet the official validity rules.
The SkillSelect EOI must show at least 65 points. The invitation threshold may be higher, and claims in the invited score must be evidenced.
At least Competent English is required at the time of invitation.
Nomination by a state or territory government agency or sponsorship by an eligible relative usually resident in a designated regional area is required.
The main applicant and family members holding the visa must live, work and study in designated regional Australia.
An EOI must be submitted through SkillSelect and an invitation received before applying; an EOI is not a visa application.
Official sources
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) — Main applicantAustralian Department of Home Affairs · Reviewed 2026-09-03
How immigration works in Australia — the process in order, the current figures with their dates, and what commonly blocks an application.
General educational information only, not personalized immigration or legal advice. Requirements can change; confirm them with the responsible government authority before acting. Next scheduled review: 2026-12-03.