VisaChief 190 vs 491: which Australian visa is right for you?
Both need state or territory nomination, but the 190 is permanent residence immediately while the 491 is a 5-year regional provisional visa with a PR pathway via the 191.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Skilled Nominated visa (190) | Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (491) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Permanent / PR | Provisional (5 yrs) |
| Who it's for | Skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory - nomination adds 5 points. | Skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia - adds 15 points. |
| Government cost | ~$4,910 (main applicant) | ~$4,910 (main applicant) |
| Processing time | ~5-9 months | ~6-12 months |
| Length of stay | Permanent | 5 years (provisional) |
| Where to apply | Onshore or offshore | Onshore or offshore |
| Work rights | Unlimited - full PR work rights | Full work rights in designated regional areas |
| Points-tested | Yes | Yes |
| Pathway to PR | Permanent residence on grant. You commit to living and working in the nominating state (typically ~2 years). | Pathway to permanent residence via subclass 887 after 3 years living and working regionally and meeting the income requirement. |
Which is right for you?
Skilled Nominated visa (190)
Skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory - nomination adds 5 points.
Full 190 guide →Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (491)
Skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia - adds 15 points.
Full 491 guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, 190 or 491?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Skilled Nominated visa (190) is the lowest at ~$4,910 (main applicant). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, 190 or 491?
Indicatively Skilled Nominated visa (190) is the quickest at ~5-9 months. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
Which of these leads to permanent residence?
190 is permanent. 190: Permanent residence on grant. You commit to living and working in the nominating state (typically ~2 years). 491: Pathway to permanent residence via subclass 887 after 3 years living and working regionally and meeting the income requirement.
What's the main difference between 190 and 491?
Skilled Nominated visa (190) is for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory - nomination adds 5 points. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (491) is for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia - adds 15 points.