Skilled Regional Visa (491)
Live, Work, and Grow in Regional Australia
What Is the Skilled Work Regional (491)?
The Skilled Work Regional (491) enables skilled workers and their families to live and work in regional Australia for up to five years. This visa is points-tested and requires either nomination by an Australian state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible family member living in a regional area. The program is part of Australia’s effort to encourage skilled migration beyond major cities, helping communities grow through diverse talent and innovation. Once approved, the visa grants you and your family access to high-quality education, safe communities, and exciting work opportunities. After three years of living and working in a regional area while meeting minimum income requirements, you can apply for permanent residency through the Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 191) — making this an excellent stepping stone toward a permanent future in Australia.
Eligibility and Key Requirements
To apply for the Skilled Work Regional (491), applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria that demonstrate their skills, experience, and commitment to regional Australia:
- Hold an occupation listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority.
- Be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
- Be under 45 years old at the time of invitation and meet English language, health, and character requirements.
This visa is based on a points-tested system that rewards your age, qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency. We assess your credentials carefully to ensure you meet every requirement and help you build a strong, competitive application.
Benefits of the Skilled Work Regional (491)
The 491 visa offers incredible benefits for professionals and their families who are ready to embrace the opportunities of regional Australia:
- Live, work, and study in designated regional areas for up to five years.
- Gain access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
- Enjoy a lower cost of living, a cleaner environment, and welcoming communities.
- Become eligible to apply for permanent residency (subclass 191) after meeting work and income requirements.
Beyond the tangible benefits, regional Australia offers a balanced lifestyle — where career growth meets personal well-being. This visa opens doors to professional success, community belonging, and long-term settlement.
How Malhotra Migration Can Help
The application process for the 491 visa can be challenging without expert guidance. That’s where Malhotra Migration steps in. Our experienced consultants help make your migration journey efficient, accurate, and stress-free.
- We evaluate your eligibility and recommend the best regional areas for your occupation.
- We prepare and submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) and nomination applications with precision.
- We manage your entire documentation and communication process to avoid unnecessary delays.
Our mission is to simplify the process while maximizing your chances of success. With transparent advice and personalized support, we help you turn your migration aspirations into reality.
Begin Your Australian Journey
The Skilled Work Regional (491) isn’t just a visa — it’s a pathway to a brighter, more secure future. It allows you to experience the charm of regional Australia while working toward permanent residency. With Malhotra Migration, you’ll have trusted professionals by your side, making every step of the process straightforward and stress-free. Contact us via email or call 0452 157 646. Let’s begin your journey to regional Australia together — your new life awaits.
