How long can I stay in Australia on this visa?

You can stay in Australia for up to five years on the Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa.

Can I apply for permanent residency?

Yes, the Subclass 491 visa provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191).

Do I need a job offer to apply for this visa?

A job offer is not mandatory, but you must be nominated by a state/territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative residing in a designated regional area.

Can I include my family members in the application?

Yes, you can include eligible family members in your application for the Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa.

What is the visa processing time?

Processing times can vary, but typically range from 6 to 12 months, depending on individual circumstances and overall application volumes.

Can I travel abroad while on this visa?

Yes, you can travel in and out of Australia as often as you want while holding this visa.

Can I switch my employer while on this visa?

Yes, you can work for any employer in the designated regional areas while on this visa.

What happens if my nomination or sponsorship is withdrawn?

If your nomination or sponsorship is withdrawn before your visa is granted, your visa application may be refused.

Do I need to live in a regional area?

Yes, you must live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia to meet the visa conditions.

Is there a points test for this visa?

Yes, you need to score at least 65 points on the points test to be eligible for the Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa.

Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa?

The Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa, also known as the Subclass 491, enables skilled workers and their families to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years. It's specifically designed for individuals who possess the skills needed in Australia's regional areas and who are willing to contribute to the country's economic growth in these regions. By obtaining this visa, you can benefit from significant advantages such as access to public health care, education systems, and eventually a pathway to permanent residency.

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa Requirements for Australia

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa for Australia. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Age Requirement
Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
Skills Assessment
You need a suitable skills assessment for an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
English Proficiency
Demonstrate competent English by passing an approved English language test.
Nomination or Sponsorship
Secure a nomination from a state/territory government or sponsorship from an eligible family member in a regional area.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit an EOI through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Health and Character Checks
Meet the health and character requirements by undergoing medical examinations and providing police clearance certificates.

How to Apply for Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa

Understand the process of applying for an Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet the basic criteria for the visa, such as age, English proficiency, and an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create and submit an EOI in the SkillSelect system. Indicate your interest in a Subclass 491 visa.
Obtain Nomination or Sponsorship
Secure a nomination from a state or territory government or sponsorship from an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
Receive Invitation to Apply
If you’re selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa. Ensure you accept it within the specified timeframe.
Lodge Visa Application
Complete your visa application and attach all required documents. Pay the visa application fee.
Attend Health and Character Checks
Undergo mandatory health examinations and provide police certificates to satisfy health and character requirements.
Await Decision
After submitting your application, wait for a decision from the Department of Home Affairs. Stay reachable for any additional information requests.
Receive Visa Outcome
Once approved, you’ll receive your visa grant details. If unsuccessful, consider feedback for future applications.

Useful Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa Resources

Department of Home Affairs

SkillSelect

National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI)

Australian Government - Visa Finder

Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa Advice

To maximize your chances of obtaining the Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa, ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements and prepare your application carefully. Gather all necessary documents, obtain a positive skills assessment, and secure a nomination or sponsorship from an eligible relative or state/territory government. Always stay updated with any changes in visa regulations by frequently visiting official websites and consulting with a registered migration agent if needed.

Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa Guide

What Is the Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa?

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa Requirements for Australia

Age Requirement

Skills Assessment

English Proficiency

Nomination or Sponsorship

Expression of Interest (EOI)

Health and Character Checks

How to Apply for Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa

Check Eligibility

Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

Obtain Nomination or Sponsorship

Receive Invitation to Apply

Lodge Visa Application

Attend Health and Character Checks

Await Decision

Receive Visa Outcome

Useful Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa Resources

Australia Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

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