Regional area (migration)
Statutory definition
Regulation 1.15M of the Migration Regulations 1994 (Cth) and associated legislative instruments define "regional area" for migration purposes. The definition has evolved over time; from November 2019, regional areas broadly cover all of Australia except the greater Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane metropolitan areas, with some additional exclusions and inclusions specified in instruments.
Explanation
Several skilled visa subclasses require applicants to live and work in a regional area as a visa condition. Key regional visas include:
- Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa; temporary visa requiring five years in a regional area with a pathway to the Subclass 191 permanent visa
- Subclass 494 — Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa; employer-sponsored regional temporary visa
- Subclass 191 — Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa; for holders of Subclass 491 or 494 who have met the work and income requirements after at least three years
Gold Coast and Newcastle/Maitland were added to the excluded (non-regional) list from 2023. Perth is currently classified as regional for migration purposes for Subclass 491 and 491-related state nominations.
How this term is used
Visa conditions for regional visa holders typically require living and working in a regional area for the duration of the visa. Breach of this condition can lead to cancellation under s 116 of the Migration Act. Holders seeking to move to a capital city before meeting the required period should seek advice about whether the move constitutes a breach.