Regional
skilled
A provisional pathway for skilled workers willing to commit to regional Australia — a 15-point boost now, and a legislated bridge to permanent residence through the Subclass 191.
A ground-up rewrite of the points test is under consultation, with a new test targeted for 2027. As at 3 July 2026 the current 65-point table still applies.
The 15-Point Multiplier
The Subclass 491 is often the most viable route for skilled workers who fall short of the high independent points thresholds. Committing to a designated regional area unlocks 15 points for state or eligible-family sponsorship — the single largest points factor in the table. After three years of living and working in the region and meeting an income requirement, you transition to permanent residence via the Subclass 191. The 2026-27 regional program was cut to 14,110 places (from around 33,000), so being decision-ready when nomination rounds open matters more than ever.
The 491 Framework
- • 15 points for state, territory or eligible-family sponsorship in a designated regional area.
- • Full work rights anywhere in regional Australia (most of the country outside Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane).
- • A positive skills assessment, under 45 at invitation, competent English or better.
- • A legislated bridge to permanent residence via the Subclass 191 after three years of regional residence and a qualifying income.
Fees & Charges 2026-27
Fees current as at 3 July 2026 (FY2026-27); the charge at your lodgement date applies — confirm at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Third-party and state fees are indicative only.
Common Questions
What counts as regional Australia?
For the 491, designated regional Australia is everywhere outside Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane — including cities such as Perth, Adelaide, the Gold Coast, Newcastle and Wollongong. The exact classification is set by legislative instrument and can change; we confirm the current boundaries against your intended location before you commit.
How do I move from a 491 to permanent residence?
The Subclass 191 is the permanent pathway. You generally need to have held the 491 for at least three years, lived in a designated regional area throughout, and met a minimum taxable income requirement for the required period. We map the evidence you will need from day one so the 191 is straightforward when you become eligible.
What does the halved regional program mean for me?
With regional places cut to 14,110 for 2026-27, competition for nomination is tighter and timing is everything. State and territory allocations had not been published as at 3 July 2026. Preparing your skills assessment, English results and evidence now means you can register the moment your state opens.
Build the 191 bridge
A 491 is only the first step — the goal is permanent residence. We act in regional nomination strategy, skills assessments and the 191 transition for skilled professionals Australia-wide.