Published Jul 15 | 2025
Skilled Regional Visa – Subclass 191
The Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa offers a clear pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers who’ve lived, worked, and contributed positively to regional communities in Australia under eligible provisional visas. Once granted, this visa gives you and your family the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia permanently.
What is the Subclass 191 Visa?
The 191 Visa is specifically designed for holders of provisional skilled regional visas like Subclass 491 or Subclass 494. It acknowledges your valuable commitment and contributions to Australia’s regional areas by transitioning you from temporary to permanent residency.
Who is Eligible for the 191 Visa?
To qualify for the Subclass 191 Visa, you’ll need to meet these key criteria:
Have held a valid Subclass 491 or Subclass 494 visa for at least 3 years.
Lived and worked in a designated regional area for at least 3 years.
You must provide Notices of Assessment from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for at least 3 income years during your time holding the eligible provisional visa. There is no minimum income amount required.
Maintained full compliance with all conditions of your provisional visa.
Subclass 191 – Processing Times
The processing time depends on the visa stream, your profile, and government workload. Always check the latest official times from the Department of Home Affairs.
🔗 Check current visa processing times
Key Requirements for the 191 Visa
| Requirement | What You Need to Demonstrate |
|---|---|
| Eligible Visa | You must have held a Subclass 491 or Subclass 494 visa for at least 3 years before applying. |
| Regional Residence | You must provide evidence of having lived in a designated regional area for at least 3 years. |
| Taxable Income | You must provide Notices of Assessment from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for at least 3 income years while holding your eligible visa. There is no minimum income amount you need to have earned. |
| Visa Compliance | You must have a history of complying with all the conditions of your provisional visa. |
| Health & Character | You and any family members included in the application must meet Australia’s standard health and character requirements. |
Unlimited rights to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
Full eligibility for Australia’s public healthcare system.
You can include your spouse or partner and dependent children in your application.
Opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship once residency criteria are met.
Access certain social security benefits after meeting any relevant waiting periods.
The Subclass 191 visa aims to reward skilled workers who’ve lived and contributed in regional Australia by granting them permanent residency.
No, you don’t need an EOI for the 191 visa. You apply directly once eligible.
Yes, with permanent residency from the 191 visa, you’re free to live and work anywhere in Australia.
No, there’s no points test for the Subclass 191 visa. Eligibility is based entirely on residence, income, and compliance criteria.
Processing times can vary greatly depending on your individual circumstances and the department’s workload. It’s best to regularly check official government sources for updated processing times.
Ready to Apply?
We know navigating visa processes can feel complex, but you’re not alone. The migration specialists at Questra make your journey simpler and clearer.
Get personalised guidance on your Subclass 191 visa application by contacting Questra today.
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