What is a Subclass 191 Permanent Residence Skilled Regional Visa?
The Subclass 191 visa is the dedicated pathway to permanent residency for Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa holders.
The pathway becomes available following a period of residence in regional Australia while holding the provisional visa.
What are the Requirements For A 191 Visa?
Applicants are required to:
- Have held a Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional provisional visa for a minimum of three years, and
- Demonstrate they have been living, working, and studying in a designated regional area for the 3 years, and
- Provide a notice of assessment demonstrating taxable income for each of the three years, and
- Meet character requirements for a permanent visa
Health requirements are generally met at the provisional visa stage.
Documents to evidence time spent in regional Australia include lease agreements, rental receipts, bank statements, employment contracts, payslips, and schooling receipts. Each residential address, job, and schooling period must be supported by documents.
Subclass 494 visa holders are therefore encouraged to keep clear records during the life of their provisional visa.
The 191 Visa Application does not:
- need sponsorship from an Australian employer
- have an age limit – age was locked in at the time the 494 was lodged
- require further English testing
- have a minimum income requirement
How much does a 191 application cost?
As of 1 July 2025, the government application fees are as follows:
Visa Application – Main Applicant – $505
Visa Application – Dependent Applicant over 18yrs of age (each) – $250
Visa Application – Dependent Applicant under 18yrs of age (each) – $130
How long does a 191 take to process?
As of 29 July 2025, Immigration advises the current processing times are as follows:
| Application Type | 50% processed within | 90% processed within |
| Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa | 4 months | 12 months |
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