At a Glance
Subclass 491 — the numbers that matter
+15 Points From Nomination
Regional state/territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship adds 15 points — the largest single boost of any pathway, ideal for scores around 65–70.
5-Year Provisional Visa
Not permanent on grant — you live and work in designated regional Australia (excluding Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane) for up to 5 years.
A Real Path to PR
After meeting the required holding period and compliance conditions, you can apply separately for subclass 191 permanent residency — not automatic, but well-established.
Who This Suits
The strongest points boost for scores in the 65–70 range
Subclass 491 trades a permanent visa for a much larger points bonus — 15 points, the biggest of any pathway — in exchange for a genuine commitment to regional Australia rather than Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. For applicants whose independent score doesn’t reach 189 or 190 thresholds, this is often the fastest realistic route into the country. It’s provisional, not permanent, for up to 5 years — but the route through to subclass 191 permanent residency afterward is well-established and widely used, not a theoretical possibility.
Eligibility Requirements
What you need for the regional pathway
65–70 Points Range
The sweet spot this pathway is built for — scores that fall short of 189/190 thresholds but are genuinely competitive here.
Regional Nomination or Sponsorship
Either state/territory nomination or sponsorship from an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
Designated Regional Occupation List
Your occupation must appear on the relevant regional list — often broader than the MLTSSL used for subclass 189.
Positive Skills Assessment
From the relevant authority for your occupation, same standard as 189 and 190.
Commitment to Regional Australia
Genuinely living and working in a designated regional postcode — not Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane — for the visa’s duration.
Path to Subclass 191
After the required holding period and meeting compliance/tax conditions, a separate application for permanent residency becomes available.
The Process
From regional match to eventual PR
01
Points & Regional Match
We calculate your score and identify which regional nomination or sponsorship route fits your occupation.
02
Skills Assessment
Confirmed by the relevant authority, matched against the designated regional occupation list.
03
Nomination/Sponsorship & EOI
We manage your regional nomination or family sponsorship application, then lodge your EOI with the 15-point boost.
04
Visa Grant & Relocation
Once granted, you relocate to designated regional Australia for the 5-year provisional period.
05
Subclass 191 Application
After meeting the holding period and compliance conditions, we help you apply for permanent residency.