Subclass 191 Visa: How to Transition from a Regional Visa to Permanent Residency
2 min readThe Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa offers a pathway for individuals living and working in designated regional areas of Australia to transition from a temporary to permanent residency. This visa provides opportunities for those who have contributed to regional development and wish to secure long-term residence. In this blog, we will explore how to successfully transition from a regional to permanent residency with the Subclass 191 Visa.
What is the Subclass 191 Visa?
The Subclass 191 Visa is a permanent visa for individuals who have previously held an eligible temporary such as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Subclass 491 Visa or the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Subclass 494 Visa. It allows eligible visa holders to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia permanently. The visa also enables access to Medicare, education benefits, and pathways to Australian citizenship.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa, applicants must meet the following key requirements:
- Hold an eligible temporary regional visa for at least three years.
- Demonstrate that they have lived and worked in a designated regional area for at least three years.
- Meet specific income requirements during their time on the temporary visa.
- Fulfill health and character requirements.
The Application Process
- Eligibility Check: Ensure that you meet all the criteria, including residence in a regional area and income thresholds.
- Gather Documents: Prepare documents such as proof of residence, employment records, tax returns, and identity documents.
- Submit Application: Lodge your application for the Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
- Wait for Processing: Visa processing times can vary, but most applications are reviewed within a few months.
Benefits of the Subclass 191 Visa
- Permanent Residency: Gain the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Once granted, the Visa puts you on the pathway to Australian citizenship.
- Freedom to Relocate: After obtaining the visa, you are no longer restricted to living in regional areas and can move anywhere in Australia.
Conclusion
Transitioning from a regional to permanent residency with the Subclass 191 Visa is a clear and structured process. For those living and working in regional Australia, this visa provides a rewarding pathway to permanent residency, offering long-term stability and the potential for Australian citizenship. For expert guidance on applying for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa, contact Lex Move today.
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