In a major development that could change the game for thousands of visa holders in regional Australia, the Australian Government has updated key aspects of the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa. This visa offers a clear pathway to permanent residency (PR) for those who have previously held a Subclass 491 or 494 visa. The big news? There is now no minimum income requirement to apply for the 191 visa itself, though income evidence remains essential from your qualifying visa period.
This new update creates more flexibility, opening doors for individuals who may have faced employment gaps, career changes, or worked part-time during their regional stay.
What is the Subclass 191 Visa?
The 191 visa is a permanent residency visa for eligible migrants who have lived and worked in designated regional areas of Australia. It comes as a second step after holding either a 491 (Skilled Work Regional – Provisional) or 494 (Employer Sponsored Regional – Provisional) visa.
This visa was introduced as part of Australia’s effort to encourage skilled migration into regional areas and ensure long-term settlement that contributes to the economy and local communities.
Key Eligibility Requirements for Subclass 191 (as of 2025)
1. Hold a Qualifying Visa
You must have held one of the following for at least three years:
- Subclass 491 – State or territory-nominated skilled regional visa
- Subclass 494 – Employer-sponsored skilled regional visa
2. Regional Residence
You must have lived and worked in a designated regional area for at least three years while holding your qualifying visa.
Note: Regional areas are defined by the Department of Home Affairs and include most areas outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
3. Income Requirement – Clarified
Here’s the most important update:
- There is no mandatory income threshold requirement for the 191 visa application itself.
- However, you must still demonstrate that you met the income requirements during your 491/494 visa period:
4. Visa Compliance
You must have complied with all conditions of your qualifying visa during your stay.
5. Health and Character Checks
You must:
- Pass an Australian health check
- Provide police clearance certificates for character assessment
6. English Language Proficiency
You must show competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent in all components), unless exempted.
Family Inclusion
One of the major advantages of the 191 visa is that it allows you to include family members in your application, including:
- Spouse or de facto partner
- Dependent children
They also receive permanent residency, with access to all benefits that come with it.
Benefits of the Subclass 191 Visa
- Permanent Residency: No further visa renewals or extensions required
- Live, Work, and Study Anywhere in Australia: Total freedom of location after the grant
- Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency and other criteria
- Sponsor Family: You can sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
- Access to Medicare and Social Services: Once you receive your PR status
Important Clarifications
- While full-time work is no longer mandatory, your income must still have met the threshold requirement for the 491/494 visa for three years.
- The 191 visa does not require employer or state sponsorship at the time of application.
- You must remain in regional areas during your 491/494 visa period, but once granted the 191 visa, you can live anywhere in Australia.
Conclusion: A Clearer Pathway to PR for Regional Migrants
The recent update to the Subclass 191 visa policy provides greater inclusivity and flexibility. For those who may have faced challenges in achieving a consistent income due to part-time work, industry shifts, or personal circumstances, the removal of a direct income requirement for the 191 visa itself is a huge relief.
However, it's crucial to understand that ATO tax records proving income during your 491/494 visa period are still required. Planning your migration pathway with a solid understanding of timelines, income reporting, and compliance remains essential.
If you’re currently on a 491 or 494 visa and are working toward PR in Australia, the Subclass 191 visa is now more accessible than ever before. Start preparing early by keeping your income records, tax assessments, and compliance in check - your Australian dream could soon become a permanent reality!
Want expert help with your 191 visa application? Contact us at Apical Immigration Experts, your trusted partner in navigating the Australian PR journey with confidence.
