Key Changes and Trends for the Subclass 491 Visa in 2026

The subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa is one of the key migration pathways that helps in overcoming labour shortages in Australia. For this reason, it is also among the most tightly regulated visas as well. The immigration authorities implement timely modifications to keep the program aligned with Australia’s evolving migration priorities.

This year marks a prominent change in how the Subclass 491 visa operates. Put simply, the visa itself has not undergone any radical legislative reform, but its practical implementation has changed.

In 2026, there are fewer nomination allocations, more competition, stronger state and territory control, and a strategic selection approach to Subclass 491 Visa applications. Let’s explore these key changes and emerging trends shaping the Subclass 491 visa in 2026 in detail.

Overview of the Subclass 491 Visa

The Subclass 491 visa is a points-tested provisional visa valid for up to five years. This visa permits an eligible skilled worker to live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia that has a labour shortage.

The applicant can apply for the Subclass 491 visa with either an Australian state or territory nomination or an eligible family sponsorship in a regional area of Australia.

During their stay in regional Australia, Subclass 491 visa holders can even gain permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa. Although for that, one needs to meet the necessary residence and income requirements.

A Defining Change In 2026: Reduced Nomination Allocations

The eligibility framework for the Subclass 491 visa applicant is almost the same in 2026, yet the selection environment in 2026 has turned out to be more competitive.

It is all because the state and territory nomination allocations for the 2025–26 program year have been reduced.

On 4 November 2025, the Australian Government confirmed that 20,350 total nomination places would be available nationally for state- and territory-nominated visa categories. These include Skilled – Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491).

For the Subclass 491 visa alone, just 7,500 places were allocated, which was 9,760 in the previous year.

This means a smaller pool for regional provisional visas than in earlier years. This would directly intensify competition across all states and territories. This competition would be particularly fierce for high-demand occupations such as ICT, engineering, healthcare, and construction.

State-by-State Subclass 491 Allocation Breakdown (2025–26)

For the 2025–26 program year, a total of 7,500 nomination allocations for Subclass 491 are distributed as follows for different states:

• New South Wales: 1,500
• Western Australia: 1,400
• South Australia: 900
• Northern Territory: 800
• Australian Capital Territory: 800
• Queensland: 750
• Victoria: 700
• Tasmania: 650

As is clear, there is an uneven distribution of nomination allocations across different states. Thus, their competitiveness for the Subclass 491 visa will differ.

How Are States Actively Shaping Subclass 491 Selections in 2026?

Unlike most Australian visas that operate at a national level, the Subclass 491 visa is actually managed through state- and territory-specific pathways. But at the same time, the visa program in each state still operates within a federal framework.

In 2026, state and territory governments have greater freedom over how they select Subclass 491 candidates. They can determine:

• Which occupations to or not prioritise
• Whether onshore or offshore, candidates are preferred.
• How often can invitation rounds be conducted?
• Any additional criteria that apply beyond the points test

Thus, if you are applying for a 491 visa, you should make certain that your application is in line with the state, rather than focusing solely on a high overall points score.

Targeted Occupation Selection in 2026

In 2026, the states have limited nomination allocations for Subclass 491. Thus, rather than inviting broad skilled occupation lists, the authorities will focus on just the ones that address immediate shortages in the regional areas of their state or territory.

Thus, there would be targeted selection of occupations. The most common targeted sectors include healthcare, education, construction, selected ICT roles, etc.

Preference for Onshore Applicants

There could be a major preference for applicants who are already living and working in regional Australia. Thus, rather than attracting new applicants, the states would focus on retaining skilled migrants in regional areas.

Higher Competition Despite Unchanged Points Threshold

Although the minimum points requirement for the Subclass 491 visa is still the same, the selection thresholds have increased.

The applicant must possess strong proficiency in the English language, relevant and recent skilled work experience, and a history of study and employment in Australia or regional areas.

Still, the points are important, but not the sole decisive factor. State alignment, occupation demand, and regional employment can often outweigh raw points and make the profile stronger and fit for Subclass 491 visa approval.

Changing Invitation Patterns and Timing Risks

Invitation rounds in 2026 are less predictable than in previous years.

It is predicted that some states may experience longer visa processing times because they conduct more frequent invitation rounds. However, some may fill up quickly and pause pathways early in the program year.

As a result, keeping an up-to-date Expression of Interest (EOI) and keeping updated to respond quickly when opportunities arise is essential.

Wrapping Up

Hence, if you are a Subclass 491 visa applicant, you not only need to meet the basic eligibility criteria but also ensure your application is strongly aligned with state priorities.

At Ozee Migration, we assist individuals in meeting the necessary visa requirements and submitting applications with accuracy across any Australian visa class, from student to skilled migration and more. Our MARA-registered agents stay informed about the latest visa changes and ensure that our clients meet all requirements to secure their Australian visas.

In addition to a standard points-based approach, we can help you submit your Subclass 491 visa application with a strong visa profile that aligns with state priorities. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Recommend Read: Subclass 191 Visa Processing Time: Complete Guide for 2026