Purpose

Address regional labour shortages by sponsoring skilled workers when an appropriately skilled Australian worker cannot be sourced

Visa Validity

5 years

Places Allocated

10,000 per year

Age Limit

45 years (with exemptions available)

English Requirement

Competent English

Sponsorship

Regional employer sponsorship

Position Requirement

Likely to exist for 5 years

Skills Assessment

Suitable skills assessment required

Skilled Employment

At least 3 years of skilled employment

Conditions

Live, work, and study only in regional areas (excluding Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane); work only in the nominated occupation and for the nominating employer in regional Australia; commence work within 90 days of visa grant

Visa Impact

Ineligible for most other skills-based visas unless at least 3 years completed in a designated regional area

Permanent Visa Pathway

Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)

Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 191

Hold subclass 491 or 494 visa for at least 3 years; comply with visa conditions; meet minimum taxable income requirements (earnings of at least $53,900 per annum for three years, increasing to $70,000 from 1 July 2023)

Alternative Main Applicant

Partner can apply for subclass 191 visa if they meet the eligibility criteria