Regional migration
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional
Sponsorship by a regional Australian employer, with permanent residence through the subclass 191 after three years.
Policy update Skilled visa income thresholds are indexed every July; the nominated salary must meet the settings that apply when you are nominated.
Indexed annuallyEligibility
A regional employer, a permanent pathway.
Designated regional Australia covers everywhere outside Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Employer Sponsored stream
Nominated by an approved regional sponsor for an occupation on the relevant skilled list, with at least three years of relevant work experience and a skills assessment unless an exemption applies.
Compare employer pathwaysLabour Agreement stream
For workers of regional employers party to a labour agreement with the Commonwealth. The agreement's terms set the criteria, and can concede age, salary, English and experience settings.
How labour agreements workThe regional commitment
Live, work and study only in designated regional areas, working for your sponsor or an associated entity unless an exemption applies.
Life on the visaPermanent Residence (Skilled Regional)
After three years holding the 494 and meeting the requirements, apply for the permanent 191 without further sponsorship.
Explore this visaThe pathway
The pathway to regional PR.
Sponsorship
Your regional employer becomes an approved sponsor.
Regional certification
A designated Regional Certifying Body certifies the position and its market salary rate.
Nomination
The role is nominated with occupation and salary evidence.
Application
Lodge with skills, experience and English evidence.
Permanent residence
Three years meeting the regional conditions, then the 191 if you meet its requirements.
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.