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Subclasses

Permanent Residency Visas (PR) Subclasses

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) allows skilled workers and their families to live, work, and study in regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years. It’s designed to support the development of regional Australia while giving professionals a pathway to permanent residency.

This visa is perfect for individuals who are nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area. After living and working regionally for a specific period, you may become eligible for permanent residency (Subclass 191 Visa).

Who Can Apply

You may qualify for this visa if you:

  • Have an occupation listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL)

  • Are nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member in a regional area

  • Are under 45 years of age at the time of invitation

  • Have a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority

  • Achieve at least 65 points in the points test (additional points available for regional nomination or sponsorship)

  • Possess competent English language proficiency

  • Meet health and character requirements

Key Benefits

Holding a Subclass 491 Visa offers you and your family:

  • Permission to live, work, and study in a designated regional area for up to 5 years

  • Access to Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)

  • Extra points in the SkillSelect system for regional nomination or family sponsorship

  • The ability to travel in and out of Australia freely while the visa is valid

  • A clear pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa, after meeting income and residency requirements

Application Process

1
Check Your Occupation
Ensure your nominated occupation appears on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
5
Receive an Invitation
The Department of Home Affairs will invite you to apply for the visa.
2
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority.
6
Lodge Visa Application
Submit your application with all required documents and fees.
3
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system.
7
Health & Character Checks
Complete all necessary medical exams and police verifications.
4
State/Territory Nomination or Family Sponsorship
Receive a nomination from a regional state/territory or sponsorship from an eligible family member.
8
Visa Grant
Once approved, you can move to Australia and begin your regional journey.

Processing Time & Cost

Processing Time: Generally 8 to 12 months, depending on the completeness of your application and state nomination timelines.
Visa Application Fee: Starts from AUD 4,640 (subject to change by the Department of Home Affairs).

Why Choose Verve Migration

At Verve Migration, we help skilled professionals turn regional opportunities into permanent success stories. From assessing eligibility and selecting suitable regional areas to managing nomination applications and documentation, our team ensures a smooth and stress-free process.

We understand that moving to a regional area is a big decision and we’re here to support you at every step until you achieve permanent residency.

PR

Start Your Regional Journey Today

Discover new opportunities across Australia’s growing regional communities with the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491).