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Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): Victoria Nomination Criteria and Process

Dec 18, 20243 min read


The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is a pathway for skilled workers who wish to live, work, and study in regional Victoria. This visa requires nomination by the Victorian Government and includes specific eligibility criteria for both offshore applicants and onshore residents.


This guide outlines the requirements, application process, and key conditions for securing the SC 491 visa nomination in Victoria.


Basic Eligibility Criteria


To apply for the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) nomination in Victoria, you must:

1. Meet all Victorian SC 491 visa requirements.


Who Can Apply?


You can apply for SC 491 nomination if you fall into one of these categories:

1. Living Offshore:

• You are eligible to apply if you currently reside outside Australia.

• If granted, you must relocate to regional Victoria.


2. Onshore Victorian Graduate (Melbourne):

• Hold a Student (subclass 500) or Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa.

• You must relocate to regional Victoria once the visa is granted.


3. Onshore Victorian Graduate (Regional Victoria):

• Hold a Student (subclass 500) or Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa.

• You must remain living in regional Victoria.


4. Onshore Temporary Visa Holders:

• Hold a temporary visa and reside and work in regional Victoria.


Application Process


Follow these steps to apply for SC 491 nomination in Victoria:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Ensure you meet all requirements for both SC 491 and Victorian nomination.

2. Submit Your EOI

Submit or update your Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect on the Department of Home Affairs portal.


3. Submit Your ROI

Use the EOI number to create an account on the Live in Melbourne portal and submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) for Victorian nomination.

4. Submit Your Nomination Application

If your ROI is selected, submit your nomination application through the Live in Melbourne portal.

5. Submit Your Visa Application

Once nominated, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs within 60 days.


Living Requirements


For Offshore Applicants:

• You must commit to relocating to regional Victoria.

• You and your dependents must live, work, and study in designated regional areas.


For Onshore Victorian Graduates (Melbourne):

• You can apply while living in Melbourne but must relocate to regional Victoria upon visa approval.


For Onshore Victorian Graduates (Regional Victoria):

• You must already reside in regional Victoria and remain there after visa grant.


For Onshore Temporary Visa Holders:

• You must live and work in regional Victoria.



Employment Requirements


Offshore Applicants:

• Employment is not required.

• Occupations in health, education, and social services are prioritized.


Onshore Victorian Graduates:

• You are exempt from the employment requirement.

• If not working or working in non-skilled roles, you must enter “0” as your annual earnings in your ROI.


Onshore Temporary Visa Holders:

• You must be working in skilled employment for an employer physically located in regional Victoria.

• Your earnings must come from skilled employment, and you must provide supporting documents.


Key Requirements

1. Age:

• You must be under 45 years of age at the time of nomination.

2. English Language:

• You must have at least Competent English.

• Ensure your English test has at least 12 weeks validity at the time of nomination..


Supporting Documents


When invited to apply, you must submit:

1. Identity Documents:

• Passport.


2. Victorian Residence Proof:

• Bank statements (6 months).

• Rental/lease agreements.

• Utility bills.

• Driver’s licence or proof of age cards.


3. Employment Proof (if claiming earnings):

• Employment contract and position description.

• Payslips (at least 4 weeks).

• Superannuation statements.


Nomination Refusals


Your nomination may be refused for the following reasons:

• Failure to meet minimum eligibility requirements.

• Providing false or misleading information.

• Working for an employer not located in regional Victoria.

• Incorrect partner points or expired test results.

• Modifying your EOI after receiving an invitation.


Note: If refused, you cannot reapply for 6 months.


Important Considerations

• Commitment to Regional Victoria:

You must commit to living, working, and studying in regional Victoria.

• Processing Time:

The average processing time for nominations is 20 business days.

• Application Fee:

The Victorian nomination process is free of charge.



The information provided in this blog is for general purposes only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Content may be subject to change. For professional advice tailored to your circumstances, please consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or a qualified lawyer before making a decision.


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