Australia’s regional migration route under Subclass 491 continues to be a key path for skilled workers who are open to living and working in regional Australia. For 2025–26, several states and territories have reopened nomination programs with updated allocations — and the demand for skilled migrants remains high across regional areas.
In this evolving migration landscape, being updated — and prepared — can make a real difference. Here’s what you should know about the latest developments for Subclass 491.
What is Subclass 491 Visa?
- The 491 visa is a provisional, points-tested visa for skilled workers who want to live, work and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years.
- To apply, you need:
- A valid skills assessment for an occupation on the eligible list.
- Nomination by an Australian state/territory government or sponsorship by an eligible relative in regional Australia.
- Minimum 65 points on the Skill Select points test + English competency + age under 45 at time of invitation.
- The visa allows you to bring your family members, and after living and working in a regional area for the required period (usually 3 years), you may become eligible to apply for permanent residency under Subclass 191 Skilled Regional (Permanent) Visa.
2025–26 Update: Allocations & State-Wise Reopening
Interim Allocations Issued (Nov 2025)
- Many states have already received “interim allocations” for the 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program.
- For example, Victoria State Government has opened its nomination stream for 491 visas — initially offering ≈ 180 places under the interim allocation.
- Similarly, New South Wales Government has also been allocated around 180 places for subclass 491. What This Means for Applicants
- Quotas remain limited under interim allocation — which means competition is high. States are prioritizing occupation lists relevant to regional needs, so only applicants whose skills match demand stand a strong chance.
- For best chance: ensure your EOI (Expression of Interest) is up-to-date, your documents (skills assessment, English, work history) are accurate, and you’re open to relocating to nominated regional areas.
In-Demand Occupations for 491 Visa in 2025
Here are some of the occupations that appear on the eligible list for Subclass 491 — and which generally have better chances given current demand in regional areas.
| Occupation / Role | ANZSCO Code / Notes |
| Construction Project Manager | 133111 |
| Engineering Manager | 133211 |
| Child Care Centre Manager | 134111 |
| Nursing Clinical Director / Healthcare Manager | 134212 / 134213 |
| Welfare / Community Services Manager | 134214 |
| Accountant (General / Management / Taxation) | 221111 / 221112 / 221113 |
| Agricultural & Farming Roles (e.g. Fruit Grower, Poultry Farmer, Apiarist, etc.) | Various codes e.g. 121213 / 121321 / 121311 etc. |
| Retail Buyer / Sales & Marketing Manager / Corporate Services Manager / Administrative & Managerial Roles | Various codes — 491 list includes such roles too. |
Important: Eligibility depends not just on occupation but also on correct ANZSCO code, valid skills assessment from authorized assessing body, and meeting points criteria.
What’s Different / What’s Challenging in 2025
- Because many states have only interim allocations, spots under 491 are scarce right now — meaning strong demand and limited supply.
- States are prioritizing sectors that meet regional labour needs and strategic growth — such as healthcare, construction, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, community services, and essential regional services.
- If your occupation is not on the eligible list or if you don’t have a valid skills assessment, your EOI may not lead to invitation. So verifying these two is critical.
- You must commit to living and working in a designated regional area — the visa won’t work for major cities.
✅ What You Should Do If You Plan to Apply Now
- Check whether your occupation is on the latest 491 eligible list — cross-verify ANZSCO code and assessing authority.
- Get a valid skills assessment from the relevant authority for your occupation.
- Submit/Update Expression of Interest (EOI) via the central system. Ensure your profile (education, work-experience, English, etc.) is complete.
- Be open to regional locations — since 491 mandates living and working in designated regional areas.
- Monitor state-wise nomination openings — some states may finalize full quotas soon, opening new invitation rounds.
Final Thoughts
The Subclass 491 visa remains a strong and flexible pathway for skilled immigrants willing to live in regional Australia — especially for people with skills in demand like construction, healthcare, agriculture, engineering, and community services.
Given the tight quotas and interim allocations for 2025–26, the race is on: having a complete, strong application with correct occupation, points, and documentation will significantly increase your chances. If you prepare well and act fast, 491 could be your stepping-stone to Australia — with a clear path to permanent residency via the 491 → 191 route.
