Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa – Subclass 191 Visa

The Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 191) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers holding an eligible visa, such as a 491 or 494, who have lived and worked in a designated regional area of Australia for at least three years. 

Designated regional areas of Australia include all cities excluding major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. 

The primary advantage of the subclass 191 visa is that it does not require sponsorship from family members or nomination by an Australian state or territory. You only need to hold an eligible visa (such as the 491 or 494) and comply with its conditions. 

Here are some benefits of 191 visa: 

• Live in Australia permanently 
• Work and study anywhere in Australia 
• Access Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare) 
• Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency 
• Become an Australian citizen if eligible 
• Travel to and from Australia for up to 5 years

• You must hold a provisional visa (subclass 491 or 494) for at least 3 years. 
• You must live and work in regional Australia. 
• You must provide notices of assessment issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for at least three years while on your provisional visa. 
• Must met all the conditions of your previous or current eligible visa 
• Must meet health and character requirements. 

Step 1: Check if you meet the requirements for the 191 visa 

Step 2: Collect all the documents required by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). 

Step 3: Apply for the visa through your ImmiAccount 

Step 4: Await a decision 

Other additional costs may include health checks, police certificates and biometrics. 

The processing time for 191 visas varies depending upon the various factors, including application volume, individual circumstances, or new updates in immigration policies: 

Incomplete or missing information may result in extended processing times for your visa application.