Looking to Live and Work in Regional Australia?
At Easy Aussie Migration, we specialise in regional migration pathways that lead to long-term settlement in Australia. Our principal agent, Roy, brings extensive experience from both government and leading immigration law firms. We provide personalised support, covering eligibility checks, nomination processes, income requirements, and document preparation. Our mission is to help you and your family transition smoothly to life in regional Australia while planning for permanent residency.
About the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa Provisional
The Subclass 491 visa is a provisional skilled visa designed for workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government, or sponsored by an eligible family member, to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. This visa is specifically aimed at addressing skill shortages in regional communities while offering skilled migrants and their families the opportunity to build a life in less-populated areas of the country.
The visa allows applicants to stay in Australia for up to five years, during which they can work in their nominated occupation or in other suitable employment within a regional area. Holders of the Subclass 491 visa also gain access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, ensuring essential medical support during their provisional stay.
Importantly, the Subclass 491 visa serves as a strategic pathway to permanent residency. After residing and working in a designated regional area for at least three years, and meeting the required income thresholds, visa holders become eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 Skilled Regional Visa.
Eligibility for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa
To apply for a Subclass 491 visa, applicants must satisfy multiple criteria, including nomination, skills assessment, and residency obligations. Key eligibility requirements include:
1. Nomination Requirement: Applicants must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government, or by an eligible family member residing in a regional area.
2. Skills Assessment: Applicants must obtain a positive skills assessment for their nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority. Occupations must be listed on the medium or regional skilled occupation lists.
3. Points Test and Expression of Interest: Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and meet the points threshold based on age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and other factors.
4. Visa Application Conditions: Applicants must also meet additional conditions, including:
- Valid passport
- Health and character requirements
- Compliance with Australian values statement
- Submission of supporting documents, such as employment references and proof of residence
- Inclusion of eligible family members, if applicable
Benefits of the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa
- Regional Work Opportunities: Live, work, and contribute to regional communities with strong demand for skilled professionals across various industries.
- Family Inclusion: Spouse or de facto partners and dependent children can be included in the visa application, allowing families to stay together throughout the provisional visa period.
- Healthcare Access: Visa holders and their families can access Medicare, ensuring essential healthcare services are available while living in Australia.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: After three years of meeting the residency and work requirements in regional areas, holders can apply for the Subclass 191 visa, providing a clear pathway to permanent settlement.
- Travel Flexibility: Enjoy the freedom to travel in and out of Australia multiple times during the visa period without restrictions.
- Study Opportunities: Family members can enrol in schools and universities anywhere in Australia, allowing uninterrupted education while living in regional areas.
End-to-End 491 Visa Solutions for Skilled Workers
Easy Aussie Migration offers complete and personalised support throughout the Subclass 491 visa journey, ensuring applicants are well-prepared at every stage. Our services include:
- Nomination and Eligibility Assessment: Thoroughly reviewing your eligibility for state, territory, or eligible family sponsorship to ensure your application meets all requirements from the outset.
- Skills Assessment Guidance: Assisting applicants in preparing accurate evidence, employment records, and supporting documents to successfully meet the requirements of the relevant assessing authority.
- Expression of Interest and Points Test: Strategically preparing and submitting your EOI in SkillSelect to maximise your points score and improve your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
- Visa Application Preparation: Compiling all necessary documents, including identity proofs, employment references, education records, and health checks, ensuring a complete and compliant application.
- Permanent Residency Planning: Providing tailored guidance for meeting the Subclass 491 visa conditions and preparing for a smooth transition to the Subclass 191 permanent residency visa after three years in regional Australia.
We assist skilled professionals across diverse sectors, including healthcare, IT, engineering, finance, education, trades, and specialised industries, offering tailored guidance for each applicant’s unique circumstances.
SPEAK WITH ONE OF OUR MIGRATION AGENT TODAY ABOUT APPLYING FOR A SUBCLASS 491 VISA!
Why Choose Easy Aussie Migration for Your 491 Visa
Applying for a Subclass 491 visa involves detailed compliance with nomination, skills, and regional residence requirements. Our team ensures your application is accurate, complete, and fully compliant with current regulations. Benefits of working with us include:
- Regional Migration Expertise: Extensive knowledge of state and territory nomination processes, as well as regional occupation lists, allowing us to identify the most suitable pathway for your skills and experience.
- Personalised Support: Tailored migration strategies designed around your professional background, family circumstances, and long-term settlement goals in Australia.
- Industry Knowledge: Experience across a wide variety of occupations, ensuring all relevant evidence, documentation, and supporting information is correctly prepared and submitted.
- Step-by-Step Guidance: End-to-end assistance from initial consultation to visa grant, keeping you informed throughout the process and reducing the stress often associated with visa applications.
- Accuracy and Compliance: Comprehensive review of all documentation, forms, and evidence to minimise errors, delays, or risk of refusal by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Registered Professional Services: Up-to-date knowledge of legislative changes, immigration policies, and procedural requirements, providing you with reliable and trustworthy advice throughout your visa journey.
By combining expertise, personalised attention, and professional guidance, Easy Aussie Migration helps skilled workers navigate the Subclass 491 visa process with confidence and clarity, turning your Australian regional migration goals into reality.
Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa Checklist
A thorough application requires accurate and complete documentation. Common documents include:
Identity Documents:
- Valid passport
- National identity card ( if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
- Proof of name change (if applicable)
- Birth certificate (for applicants under 18)
- Passport-sized photos
Evidence of skills & experience:
- Skills assessment outcome
- Current CV or resume
- Evidence of registration or licensing (if applicable)
- Reference letters from current and former employers
Nomination documents from employer:
- A declaration from your sponsor
- Evidence that your relative is eligible to sponsor you
- Evidence that your relative is living in regional Australia
Additional Documents:
- Police clearance certificates from former countries of residence
- Medical checks and English test results
- Military service record or discharge papers (if applicable)
Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa Costs
Applicants should be aware that there are two main costs that are associated with making a SWR visa application:
Government Fees: Applicants should note that the relevant fees for receiving a skills assessment will depend on the relevant assessing authority and are not set by the Department. Usually, these fees range from $600 to $1,200. The relevant fees for the Department of Home Affairs in relation to a SWR application are as follows:
- Primary applicant: AUD 4,640 (approximate, subject to change)
- Secondary applicant (18 and over): additional fees apply
- Children under 18: additional fees apply
Professional Services Fees:
- Nomination and eligibility assessment
- Skills assessment guidance and document preparation
- Visa application compilation and submission
- Ongoing case management and advice
Book A Consultation
Become a part of the Easy Aussie Migration lawyers family. We would love to assist you with your visa application!
Trusted by Individuals and Families Across Australia
Experienced Team
With years of experience handling a wide range of visa cases, our team understands the complexities of Australian immigration law. We’ve helped thousands of individuals and families start new lives in Australia with our expert advice and reliable support.
Fixed Pricing & Client Trust
No hidden fees. Our transparent, fixed pricing model means you know exactly what you’ll pay with no surprises. Hundreds of clients have placed their trust in us, confident that our fees reflect the true value of our expertise and commitment to their success.
Tailored Visa Solutions
Every client’s journey is unique, so we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. We carefully assess your circumstances and craft visa strategies that align with your personal goals and immigration needs. Your success is our priority.
Fast and Efficient Service
Time matters when it comes to immigration. We use smart systems and efficient workflows to process applications quickly and accurately. Our team stays responsive and proactive to keep your visa journey moving smoothly.
Reliable & Clear Communication
We keep you informed every step of the way in plain and simple language. Whether it’s by email, phone or video call, you’ll always know what’s happening with your application. Our team is ready to answer your questions promptly and clearly.
End-to-End Support
From your first consultation to final visa approval, we’re with you every step of the way. Whether it’s documentation, communication with authorities, or answering your questions, we provide full support until you reach your goal.