Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Subclass 191 Visa
The Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa offers a pathway to permanent residency in Australia for individuals who have contributed to regional areas through work, study, and community engagement. It is designed to reward skilled migrants who have lived and worked in designated regional areas, helping to support regional development and growth.
With this visa, you can enjoy the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia permanently. It provides access to Australia's healthcare system (Medicare) and social security benefits, ensuring a secure and stable future for you and your family. You can also include eligible family members in your application, allowing them to share the benefits of permanent residency.
Benefits of the Subclass 191 Visa
Permanent Residency
Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely
Family Inclusion
Bring eligible family members to share the same benefits
Healthcare Access
Full access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
Citizenship Pathway
Apply for Australian citizenship once residency requirements are met
Travel Freedom
Travel in and out of Australia freely for five years
Social Security
Eligibility for social security payments and support
Work Flexibility
No restrictions on employment or business opportunities
Subclass 191 Visa
MAIN REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for the Subclass 191 visa, applicants must meet the following key requirements:
Eligible Visa
Applicants must hold an eligible provisional visa, such as the Subclass 491 or 494 visa. This ensures they have already contributed to regional areas under a temporary skilled migration program.
Regional Residency
You must have lived, worked, or studied in a designated regional area for at least three years. This demonstrates a commitment to supporting Australia's regional development goals.
Income Threshold
Applicants must meet the minimum taxable income requirement for at least three years while on their provisional visa. This verifies that they have been financially independent and contributing to Australia's economy.
Visa Compliance
You must have adhered to all conditions attached to your provisional visa. This includes meeting work, study, and residency obligations during your stay.
No Outstanding Debts
Ensure there are no outstanding debts to the Australian government. This is necessary to maintain good standing and finalize your visa application successfully.
Different Streams of Subclass 191 visa
Regional Provisional Stream
This stream is for individuals who have held a provisional regional visa (Subclass 491 or 494) and fulfilled the requirements for permanent residency.
Applicants must have lived, worked, or studied exclusively in designated regional areas for at least three years.
They must meet the minimum taxable income threshold for at least three years during their provisional visa period.
This stream emphasizes the applicant's contributions to regional Australia, ensuring they have supported the economic growth and sustainability of these areas.
Hong Kong Stream
This stream is specifically for eligible Hong Kong or British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders who meet specific residency and work requirements.
Applicants must have held an eligible visa, such as the Subclass 482, 457, or 485, and have lived and worked in Australia for a set period.
This stream reflects Australia's commitment to offering a safe and secure pathway for Hong Kong nationals seeking long-term settlement.
Steps to apply for the Subclass 494 Visa
Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet the requirements, such as holding an eligible provisional visa (Subclass 491 or 494). Verify that you have lived and worked in a designated regional area for at least three years. Confirm that you meet the minimum taxable income threshold for the required period.
1
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents, including proof of identity, residency, and employment. Obtain tax records to demonstrate that you’ve met the income threshold for three years. Provide evidence of compliance with all conditions of your provisional visa.
2
Prepare Your Application
Log in to your ImmiAccount to start your application. Complete the online application form accurately and upload all required documents. Double-check that all information is correct to avoid delays or rejection.
3
Pay the Visa Fees
Submit the visa application fee as part of the online process. Keep a receipt of the payment for your records.
4
Submit the Application
Review your application thoroughly before submitting it. Submit the application through your ImmiAccount and wait for acknowledgment from the Department of Home Affairs.
5
Await Decision
Monitor your ImmiAccount for updates or requests for additional information. Processing times vary, so ensure all contact details are updated for correspondence.
6
Receive Visa Decision
If approved, you will receive your Subclass 191 visa grant notification. You can then enjoy permanent residency in Australia and its associated benefits.
7
Current Processing Time: Subclass 191 Visa
When it comes to the processing timeline, several factors can impact your application. These include the quality of submitted documents and the volume of applications received by the Department.
| Stream | 50% applications are processed in | 90% applications are processed in |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 191 - Regional Provisional Stream | 9 Months | 9 Months |
Frequently
Asked
Questions
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There is no specific age limit for a 191 visa.
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The 191 visa is a permanent visa with no expiration, allowing you to live in Australia indefinitely.
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The 191 visa does not require a points test or score.
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There are several permanent residency subclasses, including Subclass 191, 189, 190, and others.
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You must meet the minimum taxable income requirement for three years on a regional provisional visa. The amount depends on government updates.