Subclass 489 Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa
A former regional provisional visa now closed to new applications — replaced by the 491. Existing holders progress to the 887.
The Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489) is closed to new applications. This guide explains who the 489 visa was for, what has replaced it, and how to find an open Australian visa pathway that fits you.
Who the 489 visa is for
A former regional provisional visa now closed to new applications — replaced by the 491. Existing holders progress to the 887.
Closed to new applicants. Existing 489 holders move to permanent residence via subclass 887.
Subclass 489 eligibility criteria
- Closed to new applications — replaced by the 491
- Existing holders may progress to the 887 permanent visa
Subclass 489 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489) is Closed to new applications, with an indicative processing time of —. Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Provisional (legacy) |
|---|---|
| Location | — |
| Length of stay | 4 years (existing holders) |
| Work rights | Full work rights in specified regional areas |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | Closed to new applications |
| Processing time | — |
| Pathway to PR | Closed to new applicants. Existing 489 holders move to permanent residence via subclass 887. |
Pathway & next steps
Closed to new applicants. Existing 489 holders move to permanent residence via subclass 887.
Many applicants also compare the 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa), the 887 (Skilled Regional visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 489 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 489 visa — frequently asked questions
Is the subclass 489 visa still open?
No — the Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489) is closed to new applications. Closed to new applicants. Existing 489 holders move to permanent residence via subclass 887.
What replaced the subclass 489 visa?
For most applicants the National Innovation visa (subclass 858) is the current pathway. A free VisaChief check shows which open visa fits your situation.
Who can apply for the 489 visa?
A former regional provisional visa now closed to new applications — replaced by the 491. Existing holders progress to the 887.