Skilled Residence Visa
Subclass 191
What is it ?
This skilled regional (Permanent Residence) – Subclass 191 visa is designed to allow people who have held a provisional 491 or 494 visa to achieve permanent residency in Australia. It commenced on 16 November 2022.
Common Requirements
There are a range of basic criteria in applying for the 191 visa:
- Held a 491 or 494 visa for at least three years
- Complied with the conditions of the regional provisional visas
- Be inside Australia to apply
- Applicants are required to have a taxable income of at least the minimum amount specified in the legislative instrument (Currently $53,900).
Important: Applicants who earn $53,900 and claim deductions through their tax return will no longer be eligible to apply, as their taxable income will fall before the threshold.
What you can I do with a 191 visa?
It gives you the ability to work or study anywhere in Australia, you’re no longer restricted to regional ‘in-demand’ areas. There is a travel component that allows you to travel to and from Australia as much as required in the first five years.
This visa means you can enrol in Medicare, sponsor your family to join you in Australia, and possibly apply for Australian citizenship.
Common Questions
Can 191 lead to PR?
The 191 is a conditional PR visa. You can use a 191 visa to apply for citizenship.
Can you include family on a 191 visa?
Yes, when you submit your application you will be able to request a visa for them also. You cannot add family members after you’ve submitted the paperwork. This ‘family’ definition is broader, to encompass older children who travelled with you on your previous visa and have since turned 23.
Can a 191 visa be cancelled?
Yes. If you fail to comply with Australian visa conditions, it can be revoked. Visa conditions
You will be unable to apply for other skill-based visas until you’ve completed three years in your designated regional area.
You must inform the Australian government if you have had a child born in Australia on your current visa.
Can I move between Regional Areas and still be eligible for the 191 visa?
Visa holders of the 491 or 494 can move between regional areas. You are not restricted to stay in the same state or regional area that you apply. Regional areas are defined as any area excluding Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Regional areas include Perth, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Geelong, Newcastle, Wollongong, Adelaide, Hobart and Canberra.
Potential pathways
If eligible, 191 visa holders can go on to apply for Australian citizenship.
Key takeaway
To be eligible for the 191 visa, It’s important to understand the residency and Income requirements of your provisional visa, ensuring you have substantially complied with the conditions and are able to meet the minimum income requirements.
Superior migration expertise at your side.
Visa Application Charges
- AUD $385 Main Applicant
- AUD $ 195 Additional applicant Charge + 18
- AUD $100 Additional applicant Charge -18
Excluded costs
- Health Insurance
- Australian police check
- Medical Exam (if required)
* Applicants will also have the option to pay an extra charge for any applicant 18 years old or older who has less than functional English.
**Plus credit card surcharge if paying by credit card.
DISCOVER AND UNDERSTAND ALL YOUR OPTIONS IN YOUR QUEST FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCY IN ONE SINGLE CONSULTATION
Migration Plan
For a FULL assessment of your PR options including a roadmap identifying the best pathway forward, so you can reach your goals. Understand your options including the 189 visa, Regional 491 and State Nominated 190. An extensive overview of the Skills Occupation lists, Skills Assessment and State or Territory Government requirements, links to all key websites and review of any employer sponsorship & DAMA visa options.
Immigration Points Test
To apply for general skilled migration visas, you must first pass a skills assessment and points test. The points test measures how desirable you are to the Australian Government by measuring such things as your age, education, work experience and English ability.
Are you a skilled worker?
We have years of experience helping skilled workers apply to live and work in Australia permanently. Speak to one of our migration specialists for how we can help.
