Project Builder — 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 Project Builder 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.
Project Builder × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Project Builder (ANZSCO 133112) qualifies for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa through inclusion on the Regional Occupation List (ROL), making it accessible for state-sponsored regional migration pathways. The Subclass 491 is a five-year points-tested visa that requires state or territory nomination or sponsorship from an eligible regional family member, with holders committed to living and working in designated regional areas. Applicants must lodge an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect and await nomination from a state or territory that has identified regional demand for project building expertise. A positive skills assessment is mandatory before submitting an EOI, with assessment typically conducted by the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM) or a relevant building and construction body. Key requirements include achieving the minimum points threshold, being under 45 years of age, demonstrating competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent), and committing to live and work in a designated regional area for the visa period. State nomination adds 15 points to the applicant's score. After three years of regional residence and meeting the income threshold, holders can apply for permanent residency via the Subclass 191 pathway. Application fees start from approximately $4,640. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.
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 Project Builder
- 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 Project Builder
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.