Victoria 491 visa nomination 2026-27
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is for skilled workers who will live and work in regional Victoria. Here is how nomination works in 2026-27.
Victorian ROIs are not open yet
Victoria announced its 2026-27 Skilled Visa Nomination Program on 13 October 2026, but has not yet opened Registrations of Interest or announced an opening date. Status last checked 15 October 2026.
What the 491 visa is
The 491 is a provisional visa valid for up to five years. You must live, work and study in a designated regional area, which in Victoria is everywhere outside Melbourne metropolitan area. After three years on the visa, holders who meet the income and residence conditions may apply for the permanent subclass 191 visa.
State nomination for the 491 adds 15 points to your SkillSelect score, which helps applicants who are close to the 65 point minimum.
How Victoria selects 491 applicants
Victoria ranks 491 Registrations of Interest with the same Victorian Points Test used for the 190, out of 950. Invitations go to the highest totals in each round, across all eligible occupations and within the priority industries of healthcare, social assistance, education and construction.
491 nomination fees in 2026-27
- Registration of Interest
- $60 plus GST ($66)
- 491 nomination application
- $180 plus GST ($198)
Home Affairs visa application charges are separate and paid to the Australian Government.
Calculate your VPT score Victoria ROI status
Common questions
Is the 491 visa permanent?
No. The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) lasts up to five years. After holding it for three years and meeting the income and regional residence conditions, you may be eligible for the permanent subclass 191 visa.
How many points does Victorian 491 nomination add?
State nomination for the 491 visa adds 15 points to your SkillSelect score, compared with 5 for the 190.
Where can I live on a Victorian 491 visa?
You must live, work and study in a designated regional area. In Victoria that means anywhere outside Melbourne metropolitan area, including places such as Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo.
Is Victoria 491 open for 2026-27?
Not yet. Victoria announced its 2026-27 program on 13 October 2026, but ROIs had not opened when this page was checked on 15 October 2026.
Official source: Skilled migration visas, Live in Melbourne. This page is general information only and is not migration advice. Check the official source before you act.