Regional migration pathways, explained
Designated regional migration covers different mechanisms. Subclass 491 is points-tested with nomination or eligible family sponsorship; subclass 494 is employer-sponsored and is not a SkillSelect points route. Both require careful attention to their conditions and the location defined for migration purposes.
Aarish Haider · Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2619656
Updated 2026-10-22 · General information · Official-source check 2026-10-22
Key facts
| 491 | Points-tested, with state/territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship. |
|---|---|
| 494 | Employer-sponsored, with separate nomination and visa criteria. |
| Location | Use the official designated regional postcode definition for the relevant purpose. |
| Later permanent route | A separate 191 application may be available if the current requirements are met. |
Who this is relevant to
Applicants considering whether a regional pathway is worth the residence commitment in exchange for the points uplift.
Requirements
Check the actual home, work and study locations, the relevant subclass and the visa conditions. For 494, the employer and nominated role have their own requirements. A state capital or large city can be regional for one migration purpose; ordinary geographic labels are not the test.
Process
- Identify whether the route is points-tested 491 or employer-sponsored 494.
- Verify the relevant postcodes and planned living/work arrangements.
- Read the visa conditions and keep evidence of compliance after grant.
- Assess a later 191 application separately against its current criteria.
Evidence
Keep visa, address, employment, study and tax records appropriate to the conditions and any later application. The 191 Regional Provisional stream has no current minimum income requirement, but relevant ATO notices and other criteria remain.
Common issues
Regional study benefits, state nomination rules and 491/494 visa conditions are not interchangeable. Do not apply 491 nomination points to a 494 application or treat relocation alone as eligibility.
Official sources
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