Understanding the Subclass 191 Visa and Its Benefits for Skilled Workers in Australia

Australia offers various visa options for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. One of the key pathways is the Subclass 191 visa, designed to provide a clear route to permanent residency for eligible temporary visa holders. This visa supports skilled workers who have lived and worked in Australia on specific provisional visas and want to settle permanently.

This article explains what the Subclass 191 visa is, who qualifies, its benefits, and how it fits into Australia’s immigration system. If you are a skilled worker aiming to make Australia your long-term home, understanding this visa is essential.

Australian suburban neighborhood representing permanent residency opportunities

What Is the Subclass 191 Visa?

The Subclass 191 visa is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers who have held certain provisional visas in Australia. It allows eligible applicants to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. This visa is part of the Australian government’s plan to provide a straightforward path to permanent residency for temporary visa holders who meet specific requirements.

The Subclass 191 visa replaced the previous permanent visa options linked to the Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 489) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491). It aims to simplify the process and encourage skilled migrants to settle in regional Australia.

Who Is Eligible for the Subclass 191 Visa?

To qualify for the Subclass 191 visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Hold a qualifying provisional visa: This includes the Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) or Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional) visas.

• Meet residence requirements: Applicants must have lived in a designated regional area of Australia for at least 3 years while holding the provisional visa.

• Work requirements: They must have worked in a regional area for at least 1,560 hours (equivalent to 40 hours per week for 39 weeks) during the 3 years.

• Income threshold: Applicants need to have earned a minimum taxable income set by the government for at least 12 months during the 3-year period.

• Health and character checks: Like most Australian visas, applicants must meet health and character standards.

  
  

This visa is specifically designed to reward skilled workers who contribute to regional communities by living and working there for a sustained period.

Benefits of the Subclass 191 Visa

The Subclass 191 visa offers several advantages for skilled workers and their families:

• Permanent residency: Visa holders can live in Australia indefinitely with full work and study rights.

• Access to social benefits: Permanent residents can access Medicare, social security benefits, and other government services.

• Pathway to citizenship: After meeting residency requirements, visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship.

• Family inclusion: The visa allows applicants to include family members, such as partners and dependent children.

• Freedom to travel: Visa holders can travel in and out of Australia for five years from the date the visa is granted.

  
  

These benefits provide stability and security for skilled workers who have already demonstrated their commitment to living and working in regional Australia.

How to Apply for the Subclass 191 Visa

The application process for the Subclass 191 visa involves several steps:

1. Check eligibility: Confirm that you hold a qualifying provisional visa and meet residence, work, and income requirements.

2. Gather documents: Prepare evidence such as proof of residence, employment records, income statements, health checks, and character documents.

3. Submit application online: Applications are lodged through the Department of Home Affairs’ online portal.

4. Wait for processing: Processing times vary but generally take several months.

5. Receive visa grant: Once approved, you receive permanent residency status.

   
   

Applicants should keep detailed records of their work hours and income during their provisional visa period to support their application.

Examples of Skilled Workers Who Benefit from the Subclass 191 Visa

Consider Sarah, a nurse who moved to a regional town in Queensland on a Subclass 491 visa. She worked full-time for three years, met the income threshold, and lived in the designated area. After applying for the Subclass 191 visa, Sarah gained permanent residency, allowing her to continue her career and bring her family to Australia.

Another example is Ahmed, an IT professional sponsored by a regional employer under the Subclass 494 visa. After fulfilling the work and residence requirements, Ahmed applied for the Subclass 191 visa. This visa gave him the security to invest in property and plan his long-term future in Australia.

Important Considerations and Tips

• Keep thorough records: Document your work hours, income, and residence details carefully.

• Understand regional requirements: The visa focuses on regional areas, so living outside these zones may affect eligibility.

• Plan ahead: The Subclass 191 visa requires a minimum of three years on a provisional visa, so early planning is essential.

• Seek professional advice: Immigration rules can change, so consulting a registered migration agent or lawyer can help avoid mistakes.

• Meet all health and character requirements: These are mandatory and can delay or prevent visa approval if not met.

Our Personalised Approach to Your Success

We offer personalised guidance and support throughout the entire application process. Our expertise ensures you submit a strong application, increasing your chances of a positive outcome.

​Let us help you achieve your dream of living together in Australia. Contact Leading Edge Migration today.

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