Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
Skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia - adds 15 points.
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is an Australian skilled (points-tested) visa. This guide covers who the 491 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$4,910 (main applicant)) and processing time (~6-12 months), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 491 visa is for
Skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia - adds 15 points.
Pathway to permanent residence via subclass 887 after 3 years living and working regionally and meeting the income requirement.
Subclass 491 eligibility criteria
- Nomination by a state/territory, or sponsorship by an eligible relative in a regional area
- Submit an EOI and receive an invitation
- Suitable skills assessment
- Competent English
- Under 45 at invitation
- Meet the points threshold including the +15 regional points
Subclass 491 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is ~$4,910 (main applicant), with an indicative processing time of ~6-12 months. Figures are for 2025-26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Provisional (5 yrs) |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore or offshore |
| Length of stay | 5 years (provisional) |
| Work rights | Full work rights in designated regional areas |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ~$4,910 (main applicant) |
| Processing time | ~6-12 months |
| Pathway to PR | Pathway to permanent residence via subclass 887 after 3 years living and working regionally and meeting the income requirement. |
Pathway & next steps
Pathway to permanent residence via subclass 887 after 3 years living and working regionally and meeting the income requirement.
Many applicants also compare the 887 (Skilled Regional visa), the 190 (Skilled Nominated visa), the 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 491 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 491 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 491 visa cost?
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) base application charge is ~$4,910 (main applicant). Government charges are indicative for 2025-26 and usually change on 1 July - always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 491 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-12 months. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 491 visa lead to permanent residence?
Pathway to permanent residence via subclass 887 after 3 years living and working regionally and meeting the income requirement.
Can I work on the subclass 491 visa?
Work rights on the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491): Full work rights in designated regional areas.
Who can apply for the 491 visa?
Skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia - adds 15 points.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change - confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) - official Australian immigration authority