Work & skilled visas
Australian Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
A points-tested provisional visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Australia government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
- Route type
- Provisional, points-tested regional skilled visa (invitation required)
- Pathway
- Can lead to permanent residence via subclass 191
Who it is for
- Skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government to live in a designated regional area
- Skilled workers sponsored by an eligible family member living in regional Australia
- Applicants prepared to live, work and study only in a designated regional area
Requirements
- Be nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by an eligible relative
- Have a suitable skills assessment for a nominated occupation
- Meet or exceed the points threshold
- Meet age, English language, health and character requirements
What you can do
- Live, work and study in a designated regional area of Australia
- Include eligible family members
- Work towards eligibility for permanent residence through subclass 191
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related Australian visas
- WORKEMPLOYER SPONSOREDTEMPORARYSkills in Demand visa (subclass 482)A temporary visa letting an approved employer sponsor a skilled worker to fill a position they cannot fill locally.View visa details
- WORKEMPLOYER NOMINATEDPERMANENTEmployer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)A permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer to live and work in Australia.View visa details
- WORKPOINTS-TESTEDPERMANENTSkilled Independent visa (subclass 189)A points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, family member or state.View visa details
- WORKSTATE NOMINATEDPERMANENTSkilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)A points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government.View visa details
