Flying Instructor — 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 Flying Instructor 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.
Flying Instructor × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Flying Instructor (ANZSCO 231113) qualifies for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa as it appears on the Regional Occupation List (ROL). This visa supports skilled aviation instructors willing to work in regional Australia's flying training organisations. The Subclass 491 is points-tested. Applicants must meet the minimum points threshold, with state or territory nomination contributing five additional points. A skills assessment from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) must be completed before submitting an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. CASA assesses the applicant's flying instructor ratings, flight experience, and instructor competencies against Australian aviation regulatory requirements. Overseas licences and ratings must be evaluated for equivalency, and conversion to Australian certification may be required. Applicants must hold a valid aviation medical certificate, demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test, and satisfy character requirements. Holders must reside and work in a designated regional area throughout the visa period. The Subclass 491 provisional visa is valid for five years, with Subclass 191 permanent residency available after two years of eligible regional employment. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,770. 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 Flying Instructor
- 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 Flying Instructor
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.