Yes. You can apply from inside or outside Australia, provided you hold a valid substantive visa if applying onshore.
Skilled Work Regional Provisional Visa (Subclass 491)
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) was introduced to help address skill shortages across regional and rural areas of Australia. This visa provides a pathway to Permanent Residency via the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa once the applicant has lived, worked, and complied with all conditions for at least three years in a designated regional area.
The 491 visa is points-tested, with the highest scoring candidates receiving invitations after nomination by a State/Territory Government or an eligible family member residing in a regional area.
Applications in this category receive priority processing due to the urgent need for skilled workers in regional communities.
SApplication Requirements – Subclass 491
To be eligible for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, applicants must:
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Your EOI is lodged through SkillSelect and ranked against other applicants. States and Territories select candidates based on points, demand, and occupation needs.
Main Requirements
Occupation must be listed on the relevant regional occupation list
Score at least 65 points on the Points Test
Hold a positive skills assessment
Meet health and character requirements
Nomination is mandatory - either from a State/Territory or a family member living in a designated regional area.
How XL Migration & Education Services Can Help
1. Preparing Your Expression of Interest (EOI)
We conduct a detailed assessment of your skills, points score, and eligibility. We then prepare a complete, accurate, and competitive EOI to maximise your invitation chances.
2. Applying for State or Family Nomination
We manage your nomination application with the relevant State/Territory or prepare your family-sponsored pathway — ensuring all requirements and documentation are met.
3. Visa Application Preparation & Representation
We handle your full 491 visa application, evidence, forms, and compliance to ensure it meets all legislative requirements. Our team of experienced migration professionals guides you until the visa decision.
Start Your Regional Migration Pathway with the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) Visa
Book an Appointment →Popular Migration Services
Skilled Regional (Subclass 491) Visa – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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1. Can I apply for the 491 visa offshore?
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2. How do I apply for the 491 visa?You must be nominated by a State/Territory Government OR sponsored by an eligible relative. Your occupation must be on the relevant list, and you must have a suitable skills assessment.
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3. Is a job offer required for the 491 visa?Some States/Territories require a job offer as part of their nomination criteria. Requirements vary by region and occupation.
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4. Can I stay in Australia for more than 5 years?The 491 visa is granted for 5 years and cannot be extended. To stay longer, you must apply for another visa, typically the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence visa.
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5. Can I add family members later?Yes. You can include eligible family members anytime before a decision is made on your 491 visa application.