Speech Pathologist / Speech Language Therapist — 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 Speech Pathologist / Speech Language Therapist for migration purposes is handled by: SPA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Speech Pathologist / Speech Language Therapist × Subclass 491 — pathway overview
Speech Pathologist Speech Language Therapist (ANZSCO 252712) is eligible for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa — a provisional points-tested visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia, nominated by a state or territory or sponsored by an eligible relative. This occupation appears on the relevant skilled occupation list, opening regional migration pathways through both state or territory nomination and eligible family sponsorship. The 491 visa requires either nomination by a state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area. It is points-tested, with nomination adding five points to the score. Holders must live and work in regional Australia. State and territory nomination in this occupation may come with additional requirements, including commitments to work in designated regional health services or rural communities. Visa holders must reside in a regional area throughout the visa period. A skills assessment from Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) is required before submitting an Expression of Interest via SkillSelect. The assessment confirms that qualifications and experience are commensurate with the expectations for a Speech Pathologist Speech Language Therapist in Australia. Health, character, and English language conditions must be met. Certification with Speech Pathology Australia is strongly recommended and expected by most employers. 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 Speech Pathologist / Speech Language Therapist
- 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 Speech Pathologist / Speech Language Therapist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.