Regional migration
Regional Visa Conditions (491 & 494)
The provisional years run on conditions. Knowing them, and keeping the evidence, is what protects your pathway to the 191.
The conditions
What the provisional years ask of you.
Designated regional areas are defined by postcode and the list can change. Expect requests for address evidence as often as quarterly, and keep written records of every address.
Fourteen days to notify
Any change to your residential address, email, phone, passport details, or your employer's address and work locations must be notified through ImmiAccount within 14 days. The condition applies to every holder, family members included.
Live, work and study regionally
You must live, work and study only in designated regional areas, defined by postcode. Short and incidental time outside, holidays and work travel among it, is permitted; moving your life outside the regions is not.
Answer when asked
The Department can require evidence of your home, work and study addresses, due through ImmiAccount within 28 days of the request, and can call you to an interview in person, by phone or online. Requests can be triggered by employer information, site visits or other agencies.
The 494 work condition
Primary 494 holders work only in the nominated occupation, for the nominating employer or an associated entity; under a labour agreement, only for the nominating business. Narrow exceptions exist: occupations where legislation permits outside work, serving out a required notice period, and unpaid voluntary work incidental to the sponsored role. A new employer needs an approved nomination before you start, the role must begin within 90 days of grant or arrival, and any licence the occupation demands must be held before you work.
Compliance is the pathway
Substantial compliance with these conditions is itself a requirement of the permanent 191, and of any other visa that asks the same. If the Department moves to cancel for non-compliance, it issues a notice of intention to cancel and considers your response before deciding. If a request, a site visit or a possible breach lands, bring it to us early.
The pathway
How we help you stay compliant.
Set-up
ImmiAccount details, notification channels and record-keeping are set up properly from day one.
The rhythm
Changes reported within 14 days, evidence requests answered within 28, records kept as you go.
The three years
Residence, work and income evidence accumulates toward the 191 requirements.
The 191
When the time comes, the compliance record supports the permanent application.
General information only, not immigration advice. Your circumstances matter. Visa requirements, fees and processing times change regularly. Facts on this page last reviewed 15 July 2026. Check current details with the Department of Home Affairs , or speak with us for advice on your situation. Website terms.
Begin with a conversation.
Speak with a MARA-registered migration agent in Melbourne about your pathway. Book a time that suits you.