Dairy Cattle Farmer — Subclass 491 Pathway
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa · 5 years provisional → PR pathway via Subclass 191
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- State nomination or eligible family sponsor
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSLSTSOLROLCSOL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Dairy Cattle Farmer for migration purposes is handled by: VETASSESS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Dairy Cattle Farmer × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Dairy Cattle Farmers (ANZSCO 121313) may qualify for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa through the Regional Occupation List (ROL), which is specifically designed for regional visa pathways. This occupation does not appear on the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MLTSSL) or Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). The Subclass 491 pathway is points-tested, requiring applicants to achieve a minimum points score of 65. A critical requirement is state or territory nomination, or sponsorship by an eligible regional family member. Applicants must demonstrate they meet the points criteria before nomination can be considered. A formal skill assessment is mandatory for this occupation. The relevant assessing body is the Vetassess Authority, which evaluates qualifications and work experience against Australian standards. Applicants typically require evidence of relevant tertiary qualifications, practical farming experience, and English language proficiency meeting specified thresholds. Successful visa grant provides a five-year provisional period, during which applicants must work in their nominated occupation in regional Australia. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.2026-06-26T10:18:49.818Z
Content last generated: 2026-06-26
Key requirements
High-level criteria for Subclass 491. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at invitation
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment in a nominated occupation
- State/territory nomination OR eligible regional family sponsor
- Live, work, and study only in a designated regional area
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Dairy Cattle Farmer
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 494Details →Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
Five-year employer-sponsored provisional visa in regional Australia, with a path to PR.
State nominations for Dairy Cattle Farmer
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.