Australia PR 191 Visa – Your Gateway to Permanent Residency with Asquare Migration

Australia continues to be a top destination for skilled migrants seeking a better quality of life, career advancement, and long-term settlement opportunities. Among the many visa options available for skilled migrants, the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa stands out for those who have lived and worked in regional areas of Australia. This visa paves the way to permanent residency, offering significant benefits to those who meet the eligibility criteria. In this blog, Asquare Migration, your trusted immigration partner, explains everything you need to know about the 191 Visa and how we can assist you in securing your PR in Australia.

What is the Subclass 191 Visa?

The Subclass 191 Visa, officially known as the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa, is designed for individuals who have held a regional provisional visa (such as Subclass 491 or 494) and have met the residency and income requirements. Introduced on 16 November 2022, this visa grants permanent residency to skilled workers and their families who have lived and worked in designated regional areas of Australia.

This visa not only allows migrants to settle in Australia permanently but also enables them to access Medicare, sponsor relatives, and apply for Australian citizenship when eligible.

Key Features of the 191 Visa

  • Permanent Residency: Grants indefinite stay in Australia with access to public services and benefits.
  • Pathway from Provisional Visas: Specifically designed for holders of Subclass 491 or Subclass 494 visas.
  • No Points Test: Unlike many other skilled migration visas, the 191 Visa does not require applicants to meet a points test.
  • No Sponsorship Requirement: You don't need state or employer sponsorship to apply for this visa.
  • Freedom of Location: After obtaining the 191 Visa, there is no obligation to remain in regional Australia.

Eligibility Criteria for the Subclass 191 Visa

To qualify for the 191 Visa, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

  1. Hold an Eligible Visa
  2. Income Requirement
    • Demonstrate taxable income at or above the minimum income threshold (currently AUD 53,900 per annum) for at least 3 years while holding the eligible provisional visa.
  3. Compliance with Visa Conditions
    • Must have complied with all the conditions of the 491 or 494 visa, including residing and working in a designated regional area.
  4. Health and Character Requirements
    • Must meet Australia's health and character requirements, including police clearance and health examinations.
  5. No Outstanding Debts
    • Should not have any outstanding debts to the Australian Government.

Benefits of the 191 Visa

Choosing the 191 Visa as your pathway to permanent residency comes with several advantages:

  • Security of Permanent Residency: Once granted, you can stay in Australia permanently without regional restrictions.
  • Full Work Rights: You can work for any employer in any location across Australia.
  • Access to Medicare: Enjoy comprehensive healthcare benefits under Australia's public health insurance system.
  • Education Benefits: Access to domestic tuition fees and student loan programs for higher education.
  • Citizenship Pathway: After meeting the residency criteria, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
  • Family Inclusion: Include your spouse and dependent children in your application, ensuring a secure future for your family.

How Asquare Migration Helps You Secure the 191 Visa

At Asquare Migration, we specialize in providing tailored immigration solutions for skilled workers and families aiming for permanent residency in Australia. Here's how we can support your 191 Visa journey:

  1. Eligibility Assessment

Our migration experts conduct a detailed analysis of your eligibility based on your visa history, income records, and residency status. We ensure you meet the three-year requirement and verify that your taxable income satisfies immigration standards.

  1. Documentation Guidance

We assist in compiling the necessary documents, including income tax returns, payslips, employment records, residency proof, and police clearance certificates. Our team ensures that every document is accurate, up-to-date, and aligned with visa requirements.

  1. Application Preparation and Lodgment

With Asquare Migration by your side, your application is professionally prepared, minimizing any risk of errors or omissions. We handle the entire lodgment process with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf.

  1. Ongoing Updates and Liaison

We provide regular updates on your application status and liaise with government authorities if additional information is required.

  1. Post-Visa Services

Once your 191 Visa is granted, we continue to support you with post-PR services, including citizenship planning, family reunification, and more.

Required Documents for Subclass 191 Visa

To strengthen your application, you'll need to prepare a comprehensive set of documents:

  • Passport and ID documents
  • 491 or 494 Visa grant notice
  • Proof of residence in regional Australia
  • Taxation documents showing annual income (Notice of Assessment from ATO)
  • Payslips and employment contracts
  • Health and character documents (Police clearance, medical check-up reports)
  • Family documents (if including dependents)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the processing time for the 191 Visa?

Processing times vary depending on the complexity of your case, but on average, it may take 6 to 12 months after submission of a complete application.

Q2: Can I apply for the 191 Visa before completing 3 years on the 491/494 Visa?

No, the application can only be made after holding the eligible visa for at least 3 years and meeting the income threshold during that period.

Q3: What if I haven't met the income requirement for all 3 years?

Unfortunately, failing to meet the income threshold for even one year may result in ineligibility. However, exceptions may apply in some circumstances. Speak to Asquare Migration for personalized advice.

Q4: Can I include my family in the application?

Yes, your spouse/partner and dependent children can be included in the application. They will also receive permanent residency if your application is approved.

Q5: Is regional residency still required after I get the 191 Visa?

No, once you are granted the Subclass 191 Visa, you are free to live and work anywhere in Australia.

Why Choose Asquare Migration?

When it comes to Australian immigration, expertise and precision make all the difference. At Asquare Migration, we offer:

  • Registered Migration Agents with in-depth knowledge of Australian migration laws.
  • Personalized service tailored to your unique profile and goals.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
  • Proven success rate in handling regional visa applications.
  • Timely communication and dedicated support from start to finish.

We understand that the journey to permanent residency can be complex. With our guidance, your transition from a regional visa to permanent residency under Subclass 191 becomes smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Conclusion

The Subclass 191 Visa is a valuable opportunity for skilled migrants who have committed to living and working in Australia's regional areas. If you've held a 491 or 494 Visa, maintained your income, and followed visa conditions, this visa can open the door to permanent residency and a brighter future in Australia.

At Asquare Migration, we are committed to helping you make that dream a reality. Our professional guidance ensures every step of your journey is handled with care and compliance. Reach out to us today for a free eligibility assessment, and let us be your trusted partner on the path to Australian PR.