Skilled Work Regional Subclass 491
A provisional visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or sponsored by an eligible relative to live and work in regional Australia.
Overview
The 491 visa is a provisional visa for skilled people willing to live and work in regional Australia. It can lead to permanent residence once conditions are met.
Key points
Who can apply
- Skilled workers nominated by a state or territory
- Applicants sponsored by an eligible relative in a regional area
- Applicants happy to settle outside the major cities
Eligibility details
- Be nominated by a state or territory, or sponsored by an eligible relative in a designated regional area
- Meet the points test pass mark, where nomination or sponsorship adds 15 points
- Hold a skills assessment and meet English requirements
- Agree to live and work in a designated regional area
- To move to permanent residence later, meet the residence and income conditions of subclass 191
How OvalArc helps
- Free assessmentWe review your age, education, work history and language score.
- Route planYou receive options with costs and timelines in writing.
- DocumentsWe prepare and check every document before filing.
- Filing and follow-upWe submit, track and respond to the authority.
Costs and timelines
- Government application and biometrics fees
- Language test and credential or skills assessment fees
- Medical exam, police certificates and translations
- Our service fee, set out in your written agreement
Government fees and processing times change. Your adviser gives the current figures from the official source.
Documents we usually need
- Valid passport
- Education certificates and mark sheets
- Work experience and reference letters
- Language test result (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF or other)
- Police clearance and medical when required
- Proof of funds and civil documents
The exact list depends on your case.
Mistakes to avoid
- Submitting documents that do not match each other
- Missing deadlines in an invitation or request letter
- Hiding past refusals or travel history
- Relying on outdated rules from old web pages
Common questions
Can you guarantee approval?
No. Only the immigration authority decides. We improve the quality of your application and tell you the real odds.
How long does it take?
Processing times change. Your adviser gives the current official estimate during your consultation.
What if my application is refused?
We review the refusal reasons with you and explain your options, such as reapplying with stronger evidence or choosing another route.
Can my family come with me?
Often yes. Spouses and dependent children can usually be included or can follow, depending on the route.
Please note: OvalArc is a private advisory service and not a government agency. Decisions are made only by the relevant authorities and no outcome is guaranteed. Rules, fees and processing times change often, so please confirm on the official government website.
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