The 491 visa also known as Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa. It was designed to attract workers with in demand skills to fulfill the regional requirement and balance workforce needs outside the major cities. It is a temporary visa that allows skilled workers and their families to live, work and study in regional areas (not major cities) of Australia for up to 5 years.
The 491 visa is an excellent opportunity for skilled workers who are open to building their careers in Australia’s regional communities while working toward permanent residency. You can apply for permanent residency after living and working in a regional area for at least 3 years and fulfill the income requirement.

Benefits of the 491 Visa

  • You can live, work and study in regional Australia.
  • You can bring family members with you on the same visa.
  • You can access a pathway to permanent residency through the 191 visa.
  • Regional areas may offer priority processing and slightly more flexible requirements compared to bigger cities.

491 visa Australia Eligibility

To apply for the 491 visa Australia, you need to meet several important eligibility requirements set by both the Department of Home Affairs and the state of Victoria. This visa is intended for skilled individuals who genuinely wish to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia.

  • Applicant must be under 45 years of age at the time you receive state or territory nomination.
  • Applicant must have your skills assessed by a recognised assessing authority for an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List.
  • Applicant must meet the English language requirement, usually at a “Competent” level or higher.
  • Applicant must score at least 65 points on the Australian immigration points test (factors include age, work experience, qualifications, English skills and other criteria).
  • Applicant must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect to indicate your interest in state or family sponsorship.
  • Applicant must be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a regional area.
  • Commit to living, working and studying in regional Australia for the duration of your visa.

  • Once granted, the visa is valid for 5 years and it is a easy pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa if you meet the income and residence requirements after at least 3 years.If you are confused about PR points, you can use the Australia PR Points Calculator to check your eligibility.

Victorian Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa Nomination

To apply for a 491 regional visa, you must be nominated by a state or territory government. For Victoria, the state government assesses your skills and job prospects in regional Victoria.

To identify candidates who are the best, the Victorian government will use your EOI (Expression of Interest). Applicants with in-demand skills in sectors like health, trades, hospitality, and agriculture have better chances of receiving a nomination.

Victoria focuses on individuals who:
1. Have STEMM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, mathematics and Medicine)
2. Are currently working in regional Victoria
3. Have strong ties to the regional community

Why You should contact GIEC Global UK

The 491 visa process may look simple but it’s not, and lodging the visa application yourself can be risky, even a small mistake can lead to visa rejection. The visa process is a long-term and detailed procedure that requires proper documentation and accuracy. Any missing information, incorrect form or misunderstanding of eligibility criteria can cause unnecessary delays or even a refusal.

If you’re ready to build your future in Australia, consult MARA Registered agent for expert advice. Giec Global UK is proud to have its own MARA registered migration agent, offering you direct access to professional and reliable immigration advice. Unlike many other agencies, we do not rely on third-party consultants, because we don’t pay high outsourcing fees, the cost savings are passed directly on to you.