subclass 191
Permanent Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 191)
At Amity Lawyers, we are Melbourne-based immigration lawyers providing expert visa and migration services across Australia and internationally. We guide you through every step of your Subclass 191 application with clarity, care and legal expertise.
- Onshore
- Permanent Residence
- Processing: 12–24 months
- Govt fee: ~$4,640
- Follows 491 visa
What Is the Subclass 191 Visa?
The Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191) is a permanent visa for holders of the Subclass 491 (or 494) visa who have lived and worked in a designated regional area of Australia for at least 3 years. It is the final step for regional skilled migrants who have fulfilled their obligations and are ready to remain in Australia permanently.
Who Can Apply?
- Holders of a Subclass 491 or Subclass 494 visa
- Must have held the provisional visa for at least 3 years
- Must have lived and worked in a designated regional area for at least 3 years during that time
- Must have met a minimum taxable income threshold for at least 1 of the 3 years (currently ~$53,900 — subject to annual change)
- Must meet health and character requirements
Key Requirements
Residence Requirement
- 3 years living in a designated regional area while holding 491/494
- Designated regional areas include most of Australia outside major cities
- Some absences permitted — specialist advice needed
Work & Income Requirement
- Must have worked in a designated regional area for 3 years
- At least 1 year above minimum taxable income threshold
- Employment records and tax returns required as evidence
Note: The income threshold is updated annually. Our lawyers will confirm the current figure at your consultation and assess whether your income history qualifies.
What It Gives You
- Permanent residence in Australia — live, work and study anywhere in Australia
- Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
- Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements (usually 4 years total PR including time on 491)
- Access to Medicare and certain social security benefits
Why Choose Amity Lawyers?
Many applicants encounter problems with incomplete employment records, periods of absence, changes in occupation, or income that fell short in certain years. Our immigration lawyers review your full circumstances before lodgement to identify any risks and prepare the strongest possible application.
Contact us today to book your free consultation.