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Subclass 191Regional Pathway

Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa

Overview

The Subclass 191 (Permanent Residence — Skilled Regional) visa is the permanent residency outcome for holders of a provisional regional visa (subclass 491 or 494). It does not require a points test or a new skills assessment. Instead, you must demonstrate that you have lived, worked, or studied in a designated regional area for at least 3 years and met minimum income requirements while holding your provisional visa.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Have held a subclass 491 or 494 visa for at least 3 years
  • Have complied with the conditions of your provisional regional visa
  • Have lived, worked, or studied in a designated regional area of Australia for at least 3 years
  • Meet the minimum taxable income requirement (at or above the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold — TSMIT, currently approx. AUD $53,900 per year, indexed annually)
  • Have lodged tax returns with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for the required income years
  • Meet health and character requirements
  • No age limit applies at time of 191 application (unlike 491 at invitation stage)

Application Process

1

Obtain and maintain a subclass 491 or 494 visa with regional residence and work conditions

2

Live, work, or study in a designated regional area for at least 3 years

3

Ensure your taxable income meets or exceeds TSMIT for each required year (check current DHA guidance)

4

Lodge Australian tax returns and keep ATO notices of assessment as evidence

5

Gather evidence of regional residence (lease agreements, utility bills, employment records)

6

Apply online for the subclass 191 visa when eligible — no invitation required

7

Provide supporting documents and complete any required health checks

8

Receive permanent residency upon grant

Processing Time

3 to 12 months

Based on current DHA estimates

Application Costs

Primary applicantAUD $4,640
Partner (18+)AUD $2,320
Child (<18)AUD $1,160
Skills assessmentNot required
English testNot required (already met on 491/494)

Key Tips

  • Plan your regional career early — income and residence evidence must cover the full 3-year period
  • TSMIT is indexed annually — verify the current threshold on the Department of Home Affairs website
  • You do not need a new SkillSelect EOI or invitation for the 191 visa
  • 491 family-sponsored holders are also eligible if they meet the same residence and income criteria
  • Keep detailed records of employment and address history from day one on your provisional visa
  • See the 491 → 191 pathway guide for a step-by-step overview