Regional vs City: 491 Visa Opportunities in Western Australia

Leading Edge
1 day ago
3 min read

Are you planning your move to Australia but feeling overwhelmed by the visa options? If you are looking for a pathway to permanent residency that offers more flexibility and a higher chance of invitation, the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa might be your perfect match.

In Western Australia (WA), the "Regional vs. City" debate is unique because, for the purposes of migration, the entire state of Western Australia is considered a regional area. This includes the bustling city of Perth!

In this blog, we’ll explore the 491 visa opportunities in WA and why choosing "regional" doesn't mean compromising on lifestyle or career.

The skyline of Perth is beautifully reflected in the calm waters at dusk, showcasing towering skyscrapers against a pastel-hued sky.

What is the 491 Visa?

The 491 visa is a points-tested provisional visa for skilled workers. It allows you to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years. After living in a regional area for at least three years and meeting income requirements, you can apply for Permanent Residency via the Subclass 191 visa.

The WA Advantage: Perth is "Regional"

For many migrants, the word "regional" conjures images of remote outback towns. However, the Department of Home Affairs classifies all of Western Australia—including the Perth Metropolitan area—as a designated regional area for migration purposes.

This gives WA a massive competitive edge:

Urban Lifestyle, Regional Benefits: You can live in a world-class city like Perth while reaping the benefits of regional visa points and priority processing.
Extra Points: Applying for a 491 visa gives you 15 points toward your EOI (Expression of Interest) from the State Nomination, compared to only 5 points for the 190 visa.
Wider Occupation List: The 491 visa often opens doors to occupations that may not be available on the 190 (Permanent) list.

Regional WA vs. Perth: Which should you choose?

While Perth is technically regional, Western Australia is vast. Depending on your goals, you might consider the Perth Metro or the WA Regional areas (like the South West, Pilbara, or Goldfields).

1. The Perth Experience (Metro)

Best for: Corporate professionals, tech workers, and those who love city amenities.
Opportunities: High demand for healthcare workers, civil engineers, and IT specialists.
Lifestyle: Beautiful beaches, a thriving "small bar" scene, and world-class infrastructure.

2. The WA Regional Experience (The "True" Regional)

Best for: Mining professionals, agricultural experts, and those seeking a relaxed, community-focused lifestyle.
Opportunities: The resources sector in the Pilbara and Goldfields offers some of the highest salaries in the world. Meanwhile, the South West (Bunbury/Margaret River) is booming in tourism and construction.
Incentives: Often, regional employers outside of Perth find it harder to attract talent, meaning less competition for jobs and potentially faster state nomination.

Why the 491 Visa is the "Smart" Move in 2026

With the Australian government shifting focus toward regional migration, the 491 visa is often processed faster than the 189 or 190 visas. For many applicants, it is the most viable bridge to Australian Permanent Residency.

Key Benefits of the 491 in WA:

Medicare Access: Unlike many other temporary visas, 491 visa holders have access to Australia’s public healthcare system.
Travel Rights: You can travel in and out of Australia as many times as you want while the visa is valid.
A Clear Path to PR: The 191 visa is a straightforward permanent residency pathway once you’ve completed your three years of regional living.

A serene view of a boathouse in Perth perched over calm waters, connected by a wooden pier, under a vast, cloud-speckled sky.

How Leading Edge Migration Can Help

Navigating the Western Australian State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) can be complex. Occupation lists change, and the "In-State" vs. "Overseas" invitation rounds require a strategic approach.

At Leading Edge Migration, we specialize in WA state nominations. We help you:

Assess your eligibility for the 491 visa.
Calculate your points accurately.
Manage your Expression of Interest (EOI) and State Nomination application.
Provide expert advice on whether Perth or a regional WA town fits your career profile.

Ready to start your Western Australian journey?

Don’t miss out on the current 491 visa opportunities. Contact the experts at Leading Edge Migration today for a comprehensive consultation.

Book Your Consultation Now

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances