How regional living can boost your migration chances

What counts as regional

For migration, all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane is regional. This includes Adelaide, Perth, Gold Coast, Canberra, Hobart, Darwin and many smaller towns.

Regional visa options

Regional visas include subclass 491 (skilled work regional) and subclass 494 (employer sponsored regional). Both can lead to permanent residence through subclass 191 after meeting conditions.

DAMA concessions

Designated Area Migration Agreements let employers in specific regions sponsor workers with concessions on age, English or salary for certain occupations. Adelaide and South Australian regions are among the areas covered.

Regional pathways summary

OptionKey benefit
Subclass 491Extra points and regional nomination
Subclass 494Employer sponsored regional visa
Subclass 191Permanent residence after regional stay
DAMAConcessions for specific occupations
  • Consider regional cities for faster or easier visa options.
  • Check DAMA occupation lists for your target region.
  • Meet regional residence and income conditions carefully.
  • Plan the move to subclass 191 from the start.
  • Ask Myra Visa about South Australian regional options.

Need personalised advice? Speak with Myra Visa, led by Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2519116) and New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA 202507335) Deep Mehta. Book an appointment or browse more visa guides.