Subclass 191 Visa: Your Permanent Residency Pathway from 491 & 494

The Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (Subclass 191) is the final step for skilled workers living and working in regional Australia. It provides a direct bridge to Australian Permanent Residency (PR) for those currently holding a provisional regional visa.

If you are currently on a Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) or a Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional) visa, the 191 visa is your goal.

What is the Subclass 191 Visa?

The 191 visa is a permanent visa that allows you to stay in Australia indefinitely. Once granted, you enjoy:

• Permanent Residency: Work and study anywhere in Australia (though you should respect your previous regional commitments).

• Medicare Access: Enrollment in Australia’s public healthcare system.

• Citizenship Pathway: A clear route toward becoming an Australian citizen.

• Travel Facility: A 5-year travel component allowing you to move in and out of the country freely.

The Income Requirement Update

There is a lot of misinformation regarding the "minimum income" needed for a 191 visa.

Important Clarification: As of 2026, there is no minimum income threshold (TSMIT) required for the Subclass 191 visa. Unlike previous years where a specific dollar amount was expected, the Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that no such legislative instrument currently exists.

What you DO need:

While there is no "minimum dollar amount," primary applicants must provide Notice of Assessments (NOA) from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

• You must provide NOAs for three income years out of the five years you held your eligible provisional visa (491 or 494).

• These documents prove that you were a tax-paying resident in regional Australia, regardless of your total salary.

Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 191

To ensure a successful application in 2026, you must meet the following:

1. Hold a Valid Visa: You must have held a Subclass 491 or 494 for at least three years.

2. Regional Compliance: You must have complied with the conditions of your provisional visa (living, working, and studying in a designated regional area).

3. Taxation Evidence: Provide three years of ATO Notice of Assessments.

4. Health & Character: Meet the standard Australian health and character requirements.

Common Pitfalls: Why 191 Applications Get Delayed

• Missing NOAs: Many applicants forget to lodge their tax returns on time. You cannot apply for the 191 without the official NOA from the ATO.

• Moving Out of Region Early: Even though the 191 is permanent, moving to a major city (like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane) before your 191 is granted can jeopardize your application for "breach of conditions" on your 491/494.

• Dependent Complications: Ensure all family members included in the 491/494 are correctly accounted for in the 191 application.

Why Consult Leading Edge Migration Perth?

The transition from a provisional visa to Permanent Residency is the most important step in your migration journey. At Leading Edge Migration, our Perth-based experts specialize in regional pathways. We ensure your ATO documents are in order and your regional residency evidence is "decision-ready."

Are you approaching your third year on a 491 or 494 visa? 

Feel feel to contact Leading Edge Migration our team will be more than happy to assist you.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.