How do I get from the 491 to permanent residence?

After living and working in a designated regional area for the required time and meeting the minimum income condition, you can apply for the permanent Subclass 191 visa. We confirm the current conditions for your case.

What counts as a regional area?

Designated regional areas are defined by the Government and can change. Most areas outside the major capital cities and their surrounds qualify, but check before you commit to a location.

Can I move to a capital city on a 491?

The visa is intended for regional living and working. Moving away can put your pathway to PR at risk, so check before you move.

For many people it is the realistic way in when points are low, and it can lead to PR. It suits people who are genuinely happy to settle regionally.

Australia · Subclass 491

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

The provisional regional visa with 15 extra points. How the 491 works, living in a regional area, and the pathway to permanent residence.

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The free call is with our Registered Migration Agent for Australian visas.

At a glance

Subclass 491 in four lines

Type: Provisional, up to 5 years
Sponsor: State nomination or eligible relative
Extra points: +15
Leads to: PR via subclass 191

Skilled workers whose points are too low for a 189 or 190
People willing to live and work in a designated regional area
People with an eligible relative in a regional area who can sponsor them

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Other routes to look at

Subclass 190Skilled NominatedA permanent visa from the start, but you need to be eligible for a state nomination.Subclass 189Skilled IndependentNo sponsor, no regional requirement, but usually needs a higher points score.

All Australian visa categories

Our process

How we help

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Questions

FAQs

General information, not advice for your situation. Rules, lists and fees change. Book a consultation and we will confirm what applies to you.

Not sure this is your visa? Talk to us.

The free 15-minute call is with our Registered Migration Agent for Australian visas. It is enough to tell you which route fits.

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