Overview
The Subclass 491 is a points-tested provisional visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory, or sponsored by an eligible family member living in designated regional Australia. It is valid for 5 years, adds 15 points, and provides a pathway to permanent residence through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting income and residence requirements.
The 491 rewards skilled migrants willing to settle in regional Australia. The 15-point boost is the strongest sponsorship bonus, and the subclass 191 gives a clear permanent pathway — provided you meet the regional residence and income conditions. Plan the region and occupation carefully before lodging.
Who is eligible
- Be nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by an eligible relative in a designated regional area
- Submit an Expression of Interest and be invited to apply
- Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Hold a suitable skills assessment
- Be under 45 at time of invitation and have competent English
- Commit to living and working in a designated regional area
This visa is points-tested. Estimate your points with our calculator .
Costs
The base application charge is A$4,640 . An additional A$2,320 applies per applicant aged 18 or over . Fees are indexed each year — see the official Visa Pricing Estimator for the current figure.
Processing times
Around 75% of applications are finalised within 5 months, and 90% within 9 months. Source: Department of Home Affairs — Global visa processing times .
How to apply
- Confirm regional eligibility. Check that your occupation and intended region qualify under the state or family-sponsored pathway.
- Submit an EOI. Lodge an EOI and apply for nomination or arrange family sponsorship.
- Receive an invitation and apply. Apply within 60 days of invitation with full evidence.
- Live and work regionally. Meet the regional residence and income conditions toward the subclass 191 permanent visa.
How it compares
| Feature | 189 | 190 | 491 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Status | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional (5 yrs) |
| Regional condition | No | No | Yes |
| Points bonus | 0 | +5 | +15 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the 491 lead to permanent residence?
Yes. After holding the 491 for at least three years and meeting the minimum taxable income and regional residence requirements, you can apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa.
How many points does the 491 add?
Nomination or eligible family sponsorship for the 491 adds 15 points to your score — the largest sponsorship bonus available.
Where can I live on a 491 visa?
You must live, work and study in a designated regional area. Most of Australia outside Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane is classed as regional.
Related visas
- /visas/skilled/visa-190/
- /visas/skilled/visa-189/
- /visas/employer/visa-494/
- /citizenship/
- /visas/post-pr/visa-155/