Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa Subclass (491)
The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa is a points-tested provisional visa designed for skilled professionals who wish to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. This visa is ideal for applicants who may not score high enough for independent migration but can secure state or family sponsorship.
The 491 visa provides a clear pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 after meeting residence and income requirements.
- Live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia
- Valid for 5 years
- Extra 15 points for nomination or sponsorship
- Access to Medicare
- Include eligible family members
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (Subclass 191)
- Age under 45 years at the time of invitation
- Occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List
- Positive Skills Assessment from the relevant authority
- Competent English or higher
- Minimum 65 points (including sponsorship points)
- State nomination OR eligible family sponsorship in regional Australia
- Meet health and character requirements
Points System – Detailed Breakdown
Minimum Points Required: 65 (higher scores improve invitation chances)
1. Age
- 18–24 years: 25 points
- 25–32 years: 30 points
- 33–39 years: 25 points
- 40–44 years: 15 points
2. English Language Ability
- Competent English: 0 points
- Proficient English: 10 points
- Superior English: 20 points
3. Skilled Employment – Overseas (Outside Australia)
- Less than 3 years: 0 points
- 3–4 years: 5 points
- 5–7 years: 10 points
- 8+ years: 15 points
4. Skilled Employment – Australian Experience
- Less than 1 year: 0 points
- 1–2 years: 5 points
- 3–4 years: 10 points
- 5–7 years: 15 points
- 8+ years: 20 points
5. Educational Qualifications
- Doctorate (PhD): 20 points
- Bachelor / Master degree: 15 points
- Diploma or Trade Qualification: 10 points
6. Australian Study Requirement
- Completed at least 2 academic years in Australia: 5 points
7. Professional Year in Australia
- Completed Professional Year program: 5 points
8. Credentialled Community Language (NAATI / CCL)
- Passed NAATI CCL test in a recognised community language: 5 points
9. Partner Skills
- Skilled partner: 10 points
- Partner with competent English: 5 points
- Single or partner is Australian PR/Citizen: 10 points
10. Nomination / Sponsorship
- State Nomination or Family Sponsorship: +15 points
Application Process – Step by Step
- Initial Assessment – Profile evaluation and points calculation
- Skills Assessment – Lodge assessment with relevant authority
- English Test – IELTS / PTE / equivalent
- Expression of Interest (EOI) – Submit via SkillSelect
- State Nomination / Family Sponsorship
- Invitation to Apply
- Visa Application Submission
- Medical & Character Checks
- Visa Grant
Why Choose CROSSBORDER MIGRATIONS for Subclass 491?
At CROSSBORDER MIGRATIONS PVT LIMITED, we understand that the Subclass 491 visa is not just about points—it’s about regional strategy and correct planning. Our team provides:
- In-depth skills assessment guidance aligned with regional occupation requirements
- Strategic advice on English language tests (IELTS / PTE) to maximise points
- Professional support for EOI submission and state ROIs
- Accurate points-tested strategy, including NAATI and partner points
- Complete 491 visa application handling, from lodgement to grant
- Ongoing guidance for your PR pathway (Subclass 191)
We focus on realistic outcomes, compliance, and long-term settlement success in regional Australia.