Ship's Master — 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 Ship's Master for migration purposes is handled by: AMSA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Ship's Master × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Ships Master (ANZSCO 231213) qualifies for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa as it appears on the Regional Occupation List (ROL). This visa supports skilled maritime professionals seeking to command vessels in regional Australian waters under state or territory sponsorship. The Subclass 491 is points-tested. Applicants must achieve the required points threshold, with five additional points from state or territory nomination. A skills assessment from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) must be completed before lodging an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. AMSA assesses Ships Masters' certificates of competency, command experience, and sea service records against Australian maritime regulatory standards and STCW convention requirements. Overseas master mariner certificates must be assessed for equivalency and may require conversion to Australian certificates. Applicants must hold current AMSA-recognised master certificates, meet English language requirements, and satisfy health and character checks. 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
State nominations for Ship's Master
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.