Geophysicist — 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 Geophysicist 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.
Geophysicist × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Geophysicists (ANZSCO 234412) are eligible for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, a points-tested temporary visa requiring nomination from a state or territory government or sponsorship from an eligible relative in a designated regional area. This occupation is listed on the relevant skilled occupation list for regional migration. Applicants must lodge an EOI through SkillSelect. State nomination or family sponsorship adds 15 points to the base score, significantly improving invitation prospects. A skills assessment from the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG) is mandatory before EOI lodgement, verifying that qualifications and experience meet Australian standards for Geophysicists, who apply physics to investigate subsurface structures for mineral exploration, oil and gas, and environmental assessment; assessed by the Australian Institute of Geoscientists. Competent English is the minimum requirement, and applicants must be under 45 at time of invitation. Government fees are approximately AUD 4,240, with processing taking six to twelve months. The Subclass 491 provides a pathway to permanent residence via the Subclass 191 after three years of regional living and employment. 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 Geophysicist
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 189Details →Skilled Independent visa
Permanent points-tested visa for workers not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state.
- 190Details →Skilled Nominated visa
Permanent visa for workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 485Details →Temporary Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of Australian qualifications.
- 494Details →Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
Five-year employer-sponsored provisional visa in regional Australia, with a path to PR.
State nominations for Geophysicist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.