Your Journey to Permanent Residency: The Subclass 191 Visa Guide (2026)
- Leading Edge
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
If you have been living and working in regional Australia on a Subclass 491 or Subclass 494 visa, the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (Subclass 191) is your final step toward calling Australia home forever.
In 2026, the pathway remains a popular choice for skilled migrants committed to regional communities. However, staying compliant over the three-year provisional period is vital. At Leading Edge Migration, we help you navigate the transition from provisional to permanent with ease.
Why the Subclass 191 Visa is Your PR Goal
The 191 visa is the reward for your commitment to regional Australia. Unlike many other PR pathways, it offers several unique advantages:
No Points Test: Since you’ve already cleared the points hurdle for your 491 or 494 visa, there is no new points assessment.
No Sponsorship Required: You don’t need an employer or a state to nominate you for this stage.
Freedom of Movement: Once granted, you are no longer restricted to regional areas; you can live and work anywhere in Australia.
Key Eligibility Requirements in 2026
To transition to a 191 visa, you must meet three primary criteria:
1. The Three-Year Residency Rule
You must have held your eligible provisional visa (491 or 494) for at least three years. During this time, you must have complied with Condition 8579, meaning your primary residence, place of work, and study must have been within a designated regional area.
2. The Income Requirement (The 2026 Update)
A common misconception is that there is a high "minimum salary" to meet. As of 2026, there is currently no minimum income threshold for the Subclass 191 visa.
The Proof: You must provide three Notices of Assessment (NOA) from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) issued during the period you held your provisional visa.
The Catch: Even if your income was low, you must have filed your tax returns and obtained these notices to qualify.
3. Strict Visa Compliance
The Department of Home Affairs will audit your history to ensure you followed all conditions of your 491 or 494 visa. This includes notifying them of address changes and remaining in regional zones.
The Application Roadmap: Step-by-Step
Audit Your NOAs: Ensure you have three separate ATO Notices of Assessment from your time on the provisional visa.
Gather Regional Proof: Collect "proof of life" in the region, such as utility bills, bank statements showing local spending, and school enrollment records for children.
Lodge via ImmiAccount: The 191 application can be lodged while you are inside or outside Australia.
Health & Character: Updated police clearances and medical checks may be required if your previous ones have expired.
2026 Processing Times: What to Expect
As of early 2026, processing times for the Subclass 191 visa are relatively efficient:
50% of applications: Processed within 7 months.
90% of applications: Processed within 14 months.
Pro Tip: "Front-loading" your application with all three NOAs and updated police checks is the fastest way to bypass delays.
Your Success Story Starts Here
Don't risk your hard-earned PR on a technicality or a missing tax document. Join the hundreds of skilled workers who have successfully transitioned to permanent residency with our help. At Leading Edge Migration, our registered agents in Perth specialize in regional pathways, ensuring your 191 application is "decision-ready" from day one.
Ready to secure your Australian Permanent Residency? Book a 191 Visa Strategy Session with Leading Edge Migration today or visit our Perth office to speak with an expert.
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