If you’re considering applying for the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) in NSW, here’s the latest update.Pathway 3 (Regional NSW Graduate) is now closed for the current program year. Due to a high volume of applications, the allocation for this stream has been fully exhausted. The application portal is closed and will remain so until further notice.If you’ve already submitted your application, it will still be processed — no further action is required at this stage. However, please note that due to the volume of applications received, processing times may exceed the usual six-week timeframe.
Urgent Assessment Criteria
You may be eligible to request an expedited review if any of the following occurs within the next 10 working days:

  • Your (or your partner’s) visa is nearing expiry
  • Your English test, skills assessment, or passport is close to expiring
  • You are at risk of losing points due to age

If any of these apply, please contact us immediately to discuss your options.

Pathway 1: Applications Still Open 
If you are currently employed in regional NSW, Pathway 1 remains open and may be a suitable option.To be eligible, you must:

  • Be employed in your nominated (or closely related) occupation
  • Be working in a designated regional area of NSW
  • Have completed six months of continuous employment with the same regional NSW employer
  • Be paid at or above the TSMIT or CSIT threshold

Employer concessions may be available, but these must be approved prior to lodging your application.The number of nominations is capped, and applications may close without warning once the limit is reached. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee nomination, so submitting a strong application is essential. Our legal team can assist with reviewing your eligibility, documentation, and application strategy.