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The Australia 491 visa 2026 is a points-based, skilled work regional visa that lets you live and work in regional Australia for five years once nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by an eligible relative. It's one of the fastest routes to Australia regional PR. After 3 years of regional work, you become eligible to move onto the 491 to 191 pathway for permanent residency.
Skilled Work Regional Visa is an excellent route to apply for Australia PR for skilled workers. Eligible candidates can work for 3 years and apply for an Australia PR visa. Want to work in regional Australia as a skilled worker and later settle with your family? This guide by Glocal Opportunities is all you need.
Book a FREE ConsultationAustralia 491 visa is a points-based temporary visa. It allows you to immigrate to regional Australia as a skilled professional under the skilled work regional visa stream. Once applicants receive a nomination by a regional Australian state or territory, they can live, work, and study in Australia.
Before you apply: check our complete guide to Australia skilled visa eligibility and points. Review eligibility, documents, and updated criteria for 2026.
The cost of a Skilled Work Regional Visa is AUD 4,910 for the main applicant. However, it can go up to AUD 7,000–10,000 with tests, assessments, and documentation. You can save your time and money by trusting Glocal experts. Book a 1-1 meeting with them at calendly.com/opportunitiesglocal.
Usually, Australia 491 visa processing times can take up to 6 to 12 months. However, this can also depend on the completeness of documentation, nomination timelines, finding your occupation in demand, etc. Accurate profiling and expert guidance while applying for this visa may speed up the process.
Yes. Subclass 491 visa is one of the most accessible routes for skilled professionals to gain Australia regional PR. Many applicants work for 3 years in designated regional areas and become eligible to apply for the Australia 191 visa for permanent residency afterward. It is also commonly known as the 491 to 191 pathway.
Weighing your options? Compare the state-nominated 190 visa Australia and the employer-sponsored 482 visa Australia to find the right skilled route.
Are you a skilled professional dreaming of Australia PR for skilled workers through regional Australia? The following occupations are in high demand:
| Occupation | Salary Range | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Nurses & Healthcare Professionals | AUD 85,000 – 120,000+ | Bachelor's degree in Nursing/Healthcare; relevant work experience; positive skills assessment |
| IT & Tech Professionals | AUD 80,000 – 110,000+ | Degree in IT/Computer Science; 2-5 years of work experience; positive skills assessment via ACS |
| Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical) | AUD 90,000 – 120,000+ | Engineering degree; relevant work experience; positive skills assessment |
| Chefs and Hospitality Workers | AUD 60,000 – 80,000+ | Diploma/Certificate in hospitality or trade; 2-3 years of experience; positive skills assessment via TRA |
| Trade Professionals (Electricians, Plumbers, etc.) | AUD 70,000 – 100,000+ | 3+ years of practical experience & relevant degree; license to practice; positive skills assessment |
Please note: Salaries and eligibility mentioned for the above roles can differ from time to time. For the latest information, get in touch with our experts.
You should earn a minimum of 65 points on the points test to apply for the 491 visa. However, if you want to get an invitation to apply under this visa, you should aim for 70 or 85 points. You can also enhance your profile and earn more points after seeking advice from an experienced immigration consultant in India.
Popular regions included under this skilled work regional visa are:
Everyone's chasing NSW nominations, which is exactly why they're so hard to land. The smarter move? Look at regional areas instead of Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane — way less competition, way better odds.
These reasons can lead to delays or rejections. However, expert guidance can help you.
Want to get in touch with the best immigration consultant in India? Call 9958524200 or email info@glocalopportunities.com. You can also explore the full Australia PR visa pathway or contact us here.
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No, but when you are applying for this it is important to apply for a relevant skilled occupation.
The process is straightforward. However, due to lack of expert guidance many visas get rejected.
Visa fees can vary from AUD 7,000–10,000. However, for a more accurate figure, get in touch with experts.
No, you cannot. This visa is specifically meant for those who want to live and work in regional areas, which do not include Sydney or Melbourne.
After holding the 491 visa and meeting income and residency requirements for 3 years in a regional area, you become eligible to apply for the subclass 191 visa - Australia's permanent residency visa for regional skilled workers.
Yes. Your spouse and dependent children can be included in your application. Your spouse can generally work full-time, and children can attend local schools while you complete your regional work requirement toward Australia regional PR.
