If you are planning to apply for the subclass 491 visa (Skilled Work Regional Provisional), the cost of applying went up on 1 July 2026. This guide covers what changed, how it compares with other skilled visas, and how to plan your budget.

What is the subclass 491 visa?

The subclass 491 visa is a points-tested, five-year provisional visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government, or sponsored by an eligible relative, to live and work in regional Australia. After meeting the regional living and income requirements, 491 holders can apply for permanent residency through the subclass 191 visa.

491 visa fee increase: the new base application charge

From 1 July 2026, the base visa application charge for the subclass 491 rose from $4,910 to $6,140. That is an increase of $1,230, or about 25%.

The 491 and 190 visas now carry the same base charge. The 189 is a few dollars lower.

Why this matters for applicants

• A refusal costs more. The application charge is generally non-refundable, so a refused application is a bigger financial loss than before.

• Mistakes are more expensive. An incomplete application, a points miscalculation, or the wrong occupation code can waste a much larger fee.

• Timing matters. Applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026 are charged the new rate. If you were waiting to lodge, the cheaper fee is no longer available.

The base fee is not your total cost

Many applicants budget only for the visa charge and get caught out. A realistic 491 budget usually includes these items:

1. Skills assessment. The fee depends on your occupation and assessing authority, such as Engineers Australia, ACS, VETASSESS, or a trade body.

2. English language test. IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or another accepted test. Retakes add to the cost.

3. State nomination fees. Some states and territories charge for nomination or related services, and the rules differ from one to the next.

4. Additional applicant charges. Partners and children included in your application pay their own charges, which can add thousands of dollars.

5. Health examinations and police certificates. These apply to you and every family member included in your application.

6. Biometrics and document costs. These include translations, certified copies, and courier fees.

7. Professional support. Many applicants use a registered migration agent to reduce the risk of errors. If you live in Western Australia, a Perth migration agent can also explain how WA’s state nomination priorities affect your occupation.

Fees for these extra items change from time to time, so confirm current amounts with the relevant authority before you budget.

Tips to protect your money

• Check your eligibility first. Confirm that your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list and that the state you are targeting nominates it.

• Calculate your points carefully. State nomination adds 15 points for the 491 (compared with 5 for the 190), but it does not replace a strong base score.

• Keep your documents ready. Employment evidence, qualifications, and test results should be organised before you submit.

• Watch state program updates. State nomination programs open, close, and change their requirements, sometimes with little notice.

• Plan for the long term. Remember the later costs on the pathway to permanent residency, including the subclass 191 application.

Is the 491 still worth it?

For many skilled migrants, yes. The 491 remains a pathway to permanent residency for people whose occupations are in demand in regional areas. But a higher fee, tighter allocations, and competitive state nomination mean you need to be well prepared before you apply. Build a realistic budget, check each requirement, and decide whether the regional lifestyle suits you for the first few years.

Frequently asked questions

When did the 491 visa fee increase?
On 1 July 2026. It applies to applications lodged on or after that date.

How much is the 491 visa application fee now?
The base application charge is $6,140.

Is the 491 visa fee refundable if my application is refused?
Visa application charges are generally non-refundable. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the current rules.

Do family members pay extra?
Yes. Additional applicants, including partners and children, pay their own charges.

Is the 491 fee the same as the 190 fee?
Yes. Both are now $6,140.

Final thoughts

The 491 visa fee increase makes careful planning more important. Understand the full cost, confirm your eligibility, and prepare your application well before you pay the fee.

Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not migration advice. Fees and rules change often, so check the Department of Home Affairs website or speak to a registered migration agent before you apply.