491 Visa Processing Time

What is the 491 Visa?

The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa is a temporary visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory or sponsored by an eligible family member in a regional area. It allows migrants to live, work, and study in designated regional areas for up to 5 years, with a pathway to permanent residency (PR) via the Subclass 191 Visa.

491 Visa Processing Time in 2025

The 491 visa processing time varies based on state nomination approvals, invitation rounds, and application completeness.

Processing Stage	Estimated Timeframe (2025)
State Nomination Processing	1-6 months (varies by state)
Invitation to Apply (ITA)	1-12 months (depends on occupation demand & points)
Application Processing	6-14 months
90% of applications finalized	Within 8-14 months
75% of applications finalized	Within 6-12 months

Factors Affecting Processing Time in 2025

1. State Nomination Approval – Processing times depend on the state or territory.
2. Occupation Demand – High-demand occupations receive faster invitations.
3. Points Score – Applicants with higher points (80+) may get invited quicker.
4. Document Accuracy – Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays.
5. Medical and Character Checks – Additional health or police checks may slow down processing.

Cost of the 491 Visa in 2025

How Much Does the 491 Visa Cost?

The Subclass 491 Visa has application fees depending on the number of applicants:

Application Type	Cost (AUD)
Primary Applicant	$4,640
Dependent (18 and over)	$2,320
Dependent (Under 18)	$1,160

🔹 Note: Extra costs apply for health checks, police clearances, and skills assessments.

Additional Costs in 2025

✔ Skills Assessment Fee: $500 – $2,000 AUD (varies by occupation)
✔ English Language Test (IELTS/PTE): $250 – $400 AUD
✔ Health Examinations: $350 – $500 AUD per applicant
✔ Police Clearance Certificates: $50 – $100 AUD per country
✔ State Nomination Fees: $200 – $800 AUD (varies by state)

Steps in the 491 Visa Application Process

1. Check Occupation List – Ensure your job is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) for your chosen state.
2. Apply for State Nomination or Family Sponsorship – Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and state nomination application or find an eligible family sponsor.
3. Receive Nomination or Sponsorship Approval – If successful, the state government or your family sponsor nominates you.
4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) – The Department of Home Affairs invites you to apply for the visa.
5. Submit Your Visa Application – Lodge your Subclass 491 Visa application with supporting documents.
6. Complete Health & Character Checks – Undergo medical exams and provide police clearances.
7. Visa Grant Decision – If successful, you will receive your 491 Visa grant notice.

Common Reasons for 491 Visa Refusals in 2025

The Subclass 491 Visa can be rejected due to:

1. Failure to Secure State Nomination or Family Sponsorship – Each state has different requirements that must be met.
2. Incorrect or Incomplete Documents – Inconsistent or missing paperwork can lead to refusal.
3. Low Points Score – Although the minimum is 65 points, having 80+ points increases success chances.
4. Failed Skills Assessment – A negative skills assessment means you don’t qualify for your nominated occupation.
5. English Language Deficiency – Certain occupations require a specific IELTS or PTE score.
6. Medical or Character Issues – Health conditions or criminal records may affect your visa outcome.
7. Errors in the EOI (Expression of Interest) – Incorrect EOI details can lead to disqualification.

Success Tips for a 491 Visa Application in 2025

✔ Choose the Right State for Nomination – Each state has different eligibility criteria and processing times.
✔ Achieve a High Points Score – A score of 80+ points improves your invitation chances.
✔ Prepare Complete & Accurate Documents – Ensure all supporting documents are correct.
✔ Obtain a Positive Skills Assessment – Check requirements with the correct assessing body.
✔ Meet English Language Requirements – Take the IELTS/PTE test and achieve the necessary score.
✔ Submit Medical & Police Checks Early – Delays in health or police checks can slow your application.
✔ Track Invitation Rounds – Stay updated on SkillSelect invitation trends.

FAQs – 491 Visa Processing Time (2025)

How long does the 491 Visa take in 2025?

The processing time for a 491 Visa in 2025 is approximately 6 to 14 months, depending on state nomination approvals and document completeness.

Can I speed up my 491 Visa processing?

You cannot fast-track processing, but ensuring accurate documentation, submitting medicals early, and applying with a high points score can help.

Is 75 points enough for a 491 Visa?

Although the minimum is 65 points, having 75-80+ points increases your chances of getting an invitation faster.

What happens if my 491 Visa is delayed?

Delays may occur due to state nomination processing times, background checks, or incomplete documentation. You can track your visa status on ImmiAccount.

Can I include my family in the 491 Visa application?

Yes! You can include:
✔ Your spouse or de facto partner
✔ Dependent children under 18
✔ Children over 18 (if financially dependent)

Is the 491 Visa a permanent visa?

No, the 491 Visa is a provisional visa. However, it provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa after 3 years if you meet the income and residency requirements.

What happens if my 491 Visa is refused?

If your visa is refused, you may:
✔ Appeal through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT)
✔ Submit a new application with stronger documentation

Start Your 491 Visa Application in 2025!

Need help with your visa application? Get expert guidance to ensure a smooth and successful 491 Visa process.

📩 Contact us today for a FREE assessment and take the next step towards your Australian PR!