Applicants may earn additional PR points by studying, living, or being nominated in regional areas. Completing two academic years of study in a designated regional area provides 5 points. State or territory nomination under subclass 190 adds 5 points, while regional nomination or family sponsorship under subclass 491 adds 15 points, one of the largest bonuses available. These incentives are designed to attract skilled migrants outside major metropolitan centres, helping address regional skill shortages and encourage population growth in less densely populated areas of Australia.