Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa
Permanent residency for 491/494 holders who complete 3 years in designated regional areas meeting income thresholds.
The Subclass 191 provides a permanent residency pathway for holders of Subclass 491 or 494 provisional visas. Applicants must have resided in a Designated Regional Area for at least 3 years while maintaining taxable income at or above the specified threshold during that period.
Once granted, the visa permits indefinite residence, employment and study in Australia. The 5-year travel facility allows movement in and out of the country. Primary and secondary applicants must comply with regional residence conditions during the qualifying period.
Benefits include Medicare access, ability to sponsor eligible relatives, and eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship once residence requirements are met.
Eligibility Requirements
- Currently hold Subclass 491 or 494 visa
- Lived in a Designated Regional Area for at least 3 years
- Met taxable income threshold for 3 consecutive years
- Primary applicant must satisfy regional residence requirement
- All secondary applicants must reside in Designated Regional Areas
- Family members must comply with regional work and study conditions where applicable
- Meet health and character requirements
Application Process
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Confirm you currently hold a valid 491 or 494 visa and have completed 3 years of regional residence with required income levels.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
Compile evidence of regional residence (tenancy, utilities, employment), and ATO records confirming taxable income for the qualifying period.
Step 3: Lodge Application
Submit your 191 visa application with supporting documentation through your registered migration agent or lawyer.
Step 4: Visa Grant
Upon approval, receive permanent residency with a 5-year travel facility.
Costs & Processing Time
Processing Time
Contact us for current visa application charges and Home Affairs processing time estimates.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
Regional Compliance is Critical
All family members must continue residing, working and studying in Designated Regional Areas during the qualifying period to maintain eligibility.
Income Threshold
The taxable income requirement is verified via ATO records. Maintain accurate tax records throughout your 3-year qualifying period.
About the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa
Permanent residency for 491/494 holders who complete 3 years in designated regional areas meeting income thresholds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Subclass 191 visa?
Holders of Subclass 491 or 494 visas who have lived in a Designated Regional Area for 3+ years and maintained the required taxable income during that period.
What happens to my family members?
Secondary applicants (dependents) must also reside in designated regional areas during the qualifying period. They will obtain PR alongside the primary applicant.
How long is the visa valid?
The Subclass 191 grants permanent residency with a 5-year travel facility. You can extend the travel facility via the Resident Return Visa (RRV) when needed.
Can I apply for citizenship after obtaining this visa?
Yes. Once you meet the general residence requirement (typically 4 years lawful residence including 12 months as PR), you may apply for Australian citizenship.
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