Zoologist — 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 Zoologist 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.
Zoologist × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Zoologist (ANZSCO 234518) qualifies for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa through the occupation's listing on the Regional Occupation List (ROL), reflecting demand for qualified Zoologists in regional Australian communities. This is a points-tested provisional visa requiring sponsorship from a state or territory government or an eligible relative in a designated regional area. Applicants must lodge an Expression of Interest via SkillSelect and obtain a nomination from a participating state or territory, which adds fifteen points to the overall score. A skills assessment from Australian Institute of Biology (AIBiol) is required to verify competency in zoology and animal sciences against Australian standards. Key requirements include meeting the minimum points threshold, being under 45 years of age at invitation, demonstrating competent English ability (IELTS 6 or equivalent), and committing to reside and work in the nominating regional area for the visa duration. After three years of compliant regional employment, holders may apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa. 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 Zoologist
- 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.
- 485Details →Temporary Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of Australian qualifications.
State nominations for Zoologist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.