Skilled Work Regional Visa for Immigration

Skilled Work Regional Visa for Immigration

Have you ever dreamed of living and working in regional Australia?

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) provides skilled individuals and their families with the opportunity to settle in designated regional areas. This visa is designed for skilled workers who are either nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative residing in a regional area.

With a range of benefits, including full work rights and a clear pathway to permanent residency, the 491 visa offers exceptional opportunities for skilled migrants looking to contribute to regional Australia’s economy and communities.

Whether you’re the main applicant or a subsequent entrant, this visa allows you to live, work, and study in regional Australia, supporting its growth and development.

At Knowbal, we specialise in making your visa journey smooth and stress-free. From eligibility assessments to visa application submission, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Schedule a one-on-one consultation with us today!

the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

offers skilled workers and their families the opportunity to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. Designed to support regional economic growth, this visa provides a clear pathway to permanent residency while allowing migrants to build a stable future.


Extended Stay

The 491 visa allows skilled workers to stay in Australia for up to five years from the date of grant. This extended period provides ample time to integrate into the local community, establish a career, and create a strong foundation for permanent residency.

Regional Lifestyle

Living in designated regional areas offers numerous advantages, including affordable living, access to growing job markets, and a high quality of life. These regions provide strong career opportunities while fostering community-driven environments for skilled migrants and their families.

Travel Freedom

Visa holders enjoy unrestricted travel in and out of Australia while their visa remains valid. This ensures that migrants can maintain ties with their home country while enjoying the benefits of living and working in Australia.


Pathway to Permanent Residency

One of the most significant advantages of the Subclass 491 visa is its clear pathway to permanent residency. After three years of meeting income and regional residency requirements, visa holders become eligible to apply for the Skilled Regional Permanent Residency Visa (Subclass 191), allowing them to live in Australia permanently.

Family Inclusion

The 491 visa allows skilled workers to include eligible family members in their application. This means that partners and dependent children can live, work, and study in regional Australia, ensuring families can remain together while securing their future.

These benefits are designed to ensure that you not only thrive in Australia but also enjoy a fulfilling personal and professional life. Contact Knowbal to discover how this visa can transform your future!

Eligibility for the Skilled Work Regional Visa

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is designed to attract skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet specific criteria:​

Invitation to Apply

Prospective applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system. Invitations to apply for the visa are extended based on the EOI and points score.

Nomination or Sponsorship

Applicants must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency or sponsored by an eligible relative residing in a designated regional area. This demonstrates a commitment to supporting regional communities.

Age Requirement

Applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of receiving the invitation to apply.

Skills Assessment

A valid skills assessment for the nominated occupation is required to ensure alignment with Australia’s labor market needs.

Points-Based Test

Applicants must achieve a minimum of 65 points on the points test, which considers factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, and education.

English Proficiency

Applicants must demonstrate at least Competent English proficiency, typically through an approved English language test.

Health and Character Requirements

Applicants must meet Australia’s health and character standards to ensure they can contribute positively to the community.

Debt Clearance

Applicants must have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government or have arranged to repay any existing debts.

Australian Values Statement

Applicants are required to sign a statement confirming their commitment to Australian values and way of life.

No Prior Visa Cancellations or Refusals

Applicants should not have a history of visa cancellations or refusals, as this may affect eligibility.

Meeting these criteria is essential for a successful application for the Subclass 491 visa, paving the way for skilled workers and their families to contribute to and thrive in regional Australian communities.

Make sure all the requirements are fulfilled before you apply for this visa.

Schedule a consultation with Knowbal to check your eligibility and receive expert advice tailored to your situation!
+61 3 9448 1800

Processing Timelines for the Skilled Work Regional Visa

Understanding the processing timelines for the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) is essential to planning your migration journey. At Knowbal, we want to ensure you have a clear picture of what to expect during the application process.

Case-by-Case Assessment

Applications are assessed on an individual basis. Processing times can vary due to the following factors:

Completeness of Application

Ensure you submit all necessary supporting documents. Using the checklists available at ImmiAccount can help you avoid delays.

Application Method

Lodging an online application streamlines the process compared to paper applications.

Response Time

Quickly responding to any requests for additional information helps reduce delays.

Required Checks

The time it takes to perform mandatory checks, such as health, character, and national security requirements, can impact the timeline.

External Agency Processes

Receiving information from external agencies can sometimes cause delays.

Migration Program Availability

The number of places available in the migration program for permanent visas may also influence processing times.

Processing Benchmarks

50% of applications are processed within 17 months.

90% of applications are processed within 20 months.

These timelines are general benchmarks and can vary depending on the complexity of your case, the volume of applications, and any changes to Ministerial Directions or policies.

To ensure a smooth application process, work with an experienced team like Knowbal. We help you gather the right documents, respond promptly to queries, and navigate any complexities in your case. Contact us today to get started!

Knowbal Application Process

At Knowbal, we understand that applying for a visa can be complex and time-consuming. Here’s how we make it easy for you:

Here’s how we assist you:

We start by understanding your background, skills, and career goals. Our team assesses your eligibility for the 491 visa and provides a clear roadmap tailored to your circumstances.

A dedicated migration agent will be assigned to your case, providing consistent guidance and support throughout the process. Your agent will ensure all aspects of your application are handled professionally and efficiently.

We provide a detailed checklist and assist you in collecting all required documents, such as skills assessments, English test results, and supporting evidence for your EOI, ensuring they meet Australian immigration standards.

We meticulously prepare your application, ensuring it complies with all requirements. Your application is submitted promptly, minimising delays and increasing your chances of success.

Throughout the process, we keep you informed about the status of your application. Our team is always available to answer your questions and address any concerns.

With Knowbal by your side, you can focus on preparing for your new life in Australia while we handle the paperwork. Contact Knowbal to start your application today!

Why Choose Knowbal?

When it comes to going through the complexities of Australian immigration, here’s why Knowbal is the trusted choice for skilled migrants: 

1

Expert Visa Advice

Our team of experienced migration agents stays up-to-date with the latest immigration policies and requirements. This ensures you receive accurate, reliable, and actionable guidance tailored to your unique situation.

2

Comprehensive Visa Assistance

We manage every aspect of the visa process, from initial eligibility checks to final application submissions. Our step-by-step approach ensures no detail is overlooked, giving you peace of mind.

3

Proven Success Record

With a history of successful visa applications, Knowbal has helped countless clients achieve their dreams of Australian migration. Our proven track record is a testament to our dedication and expertise.

4

Tailored Support

Every individual has unique goals and challenges. At Knowbal, we take the time to understand your circumstances and provide customised solutions to help you achieve your objectives efficiently.

5

Transparent Communication

We believe in keeping our clients informed at every stage of the process. You’ll receive regular updates, clear timelines, and prompt answers to your questions, ensuring you’re always in the loop.

Choosing Knowbal means choosing a partner who is committed to your success. Let us make your migration journey seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to get started!

Client Success Stories - Hear from People Who’ve Made It!

We believe that the best testament to our service is the success of our clients. Here’s what a few of our clients have to say about their experience with Knowbal:

Ravi Chodvadiya
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I recently received my Australian Permanent Residency, and I cannot thank Knowbal Migration enough for their exceptional support throughout the entire journey—from skilled assessment to PR approval. A huge shoutout to Rishav Verma, Trushen Bhatt, Nirav Bhai, and Nilesh Chaudhary for their dedication, professionalism, and attention to detail. They made a complex process smooth and stress-free, always providing the right guidance at the right time. Their expertise, transparency, and commitment to their clients truly set them apart. If you’re looking for a migration agency that genuinely cares about your success, I highly recommend Knowbal Migration! Thank you once again for making this dream a reality!
Prince Patel
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“I had the pleasure of working with Knowbal Education's migration agent team led by Trushen Bhatt, and I couldn't be more impressed. Their professionalism and qualifications shine through in every interaction. Not only were they cooperative and attentive to my needs, but they also provided the best advice tailored to my situation. Trushen Bhatt's thorough explanations of the fees structure and course outcomes gave me a proper understanding of what to expect. I highly recommend Knowbal Education for anyone seeking reliable migration services.”
Sanny Prajapati
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I am thankful to Knowbal Immigration for their outstanding support in helping me secure my 189 visa. A special thanks to Rishavbhai and Kunalbhai for their professionalism, and expert guidance throughout the process. I highly recommend Knowbal Immigration to anyone looking for reliable and trustworthy immigration agent. They truly go above and beyond to ensure all successful outcome. Thanks again for your incredible service. 🙏
Parth Patel
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“Dear Nilesh Sir and the entire team at Knowbal Migration, I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your outstanding work in securing my wife's visa before the deadline. Your expertise, guidance, and prompt communication throughout the entire process were invaluable. I would wholeheartedly recommend your services to anyone seeking assistance with visa applications. I would like to extend a special thanks to Trushen Sir, Dhruv Sir, Krunal Sir, Harshita Ma'am, and Divya Ma'am for their exceptional contributions to the success of my wife's visa application. Their dedication, attention to detail, and personalized support made all the difference. Thank you once again for your dedication and support. 💐💐💐”
Chaudhary Gaurang
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I have really satisfied with the service of Knowbal migration and Education. They always encourages us to do and get positive and provide accurate and required all information to guide us in better way. I have never seen the way of services they offer to their clients as i can put 100% trust on them as they working for us. Overall, thank you so much to entire team of Knowbal migration to support and help us like phenomenal way. Appreciated.

Each story is unique, but they all share one thing in common—a smooth, reliable experience with Knowbal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The 491 visa is a temporary visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative. It allows you to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years, with a pathway to permanent residency.

The processing time typically ranges from 17 to 20 months, depending on individual circumstances and the completeness of the application.

The base application fee is AUD 4,770, with additional charges for dependent family members and other associated costs such as skills assessments and medical exams.

Type of Sponsorship:

  • The 491 visa is points-tested and requires nomination by a state/territory or sponsorship by an eligible relative.
  • The 494 visa is employer-sponsored, requiring a specific job offer in regional Australia.

Flexibility:

  • The 491 visa allows more freedom to live and work in designated regional areas.
  • The 494 visa ties you to working for the sponsoring employer in a specific role.

Points Test:

  • The 491 visa requires you to achieve at least 65 points based on factors like age, skills, and experience.
  • The 494 visa does not require a points test.

Pathway to PR:

  • Both visas lead to permanent residency, but the eligibility criteria differ.

    Still unsure which visa is right for you? Contact Knowbal to find the perfect fit for your migration goals!

To apply, you must:

  • Submit an EOI and receive an invitation.
  • Be nominated by a state or territory or sponsored by an eligible relative.
  • Have a suitable skills assessment.
  • Score at least 65 points.
  • Meet age, English, health, and character requirements.

Still have questions? Contact Knowbal for personalised assistance!

Take the First Step with Knowbal

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) offers a world of opportunities for skilled migrants. Whether you’re planning to build a career, settle with your family, or eventually gain permanent residency, Knowbal is here to guide you every step of the way. Book your consultation with us today and start your journey towards a brighter future in regional Australia!
+61 3 9448 1800