In the world of global migration, Australia’s Permanent Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 191) emerges as a beacon of opportunity for skilled individuals seeking to etch their story in the heartlands of the country.
The Permanent Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 191) is far more than a mere visa; it embodies the Australian spirit of fostering growth and prosperity beyond urban centers.
This visa not only offers the promise of permanent residency but extends a warm invitation to skilled individuals to partake in the development and growth of regional areas. By design, it bridges aspirations with opportunities, carving a pathway for those who wish to contribute to the lifeblood of regional communities.
What the Australian Permanent Skilled Regional Visa Offers you;
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: As the name suggests, this visa leads to permanent residency in Australia, allowing visa holders to establish deep roots in regional communities. That means you get to remain in Australia Permanently!
- Freedom to Work and Study: The visa provides the liberty to work, study, and reside anywhere within Australia, thereby empowering individuals to craft their lives on their terms. That is to say that with this visa in hand, you get to seek employment and educational opportunities in Australia,
- Access to Comprehensive Services: Visa holders gain access to Australia’s comprehensive healthcare system and social services, ensuring their well-being and security.
- Citizenship Aspirations: Upon fulfilling residency requirements, visa holders are eligible to apply for Australian citizenship, solidifying their connection to the nation.
- Inclusive Family Benefits: The privileges of the visa extend to immediate family members, fostering a unified journey towards a new chapter in Australia’s regions.
- Travel in and out of Australia for a period of 5 years.
Who is Eligible to Apply for a Visa 191?
- You already have a valid and eligible visa to Australia. A subclass 491 or 494 visa is an eligible visa.
- You must present Australian Taxation Office (ATO) notices of assessment for three of the five years of your eligible visa. There is no required minimum income.
- You spent at least three years in a particular region of the country.
- For at least three years, you had taxable income that met or above the income threshold.
- You and your new applicants have complied with Australian laws and met the requirements of your previous visas.
- You must meet the character requirement, including family members aged 16 and over who apply for the visa with you; other family members who are not coming to Australia must also meet the character requirement.
Application Process for the Australian Permanent Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 191)
- You need to gather and arrange your documentation before applying.
- You will be asked to present identification, character, and other documents proving that you have met your visa requirements in Australia. You must also submit paperwork for your partner and any dependent children.
- This visa is available for application online. You may apply from within or outside of Australia.
- When your application has been accepted, you will be notified. You will be notified of your visa approval if you have been given a bridging visa.
It is important to note that there is no defined protocol for applying for a visa 191 yet, however, you will almost certainly be asked to submit an online application using ImmiAccount. You can apply for the visa from within or outside of Australia, however, you cannot be in immigration clearance.
What are the Odds of your Australian Permanent Skilled Regional Visa Getting Approved?
You can be in or out of Australia when we decide on your visa application. We will inform you of our decision through an email.
If your Visa has been approved, we will notify you of your;
- Your visa grant number
- The date your visa begins
- Your visa requirements, if any
Be sure to keep a copy of the email intact.
If we decline your visa, we will notify you as follows:
- why we turned down the visa
- whether you have the authority to file an appeal on the decision
If we reject your application, we will not refund the application fee.
Australian Permanent Skilled Regional Visa Fees;
- The visa costs AUD475.00 for the main applicant.
- The visa costs AUD240.00 for each additional applicant who is at least 18.
- The visa costs AUD120.00 for each additional applicant who is less than 18.
- You may also be charged for health exams, police credentials, and biometrics.
*Costs are correct as of 14th August, 2023.
Is it possible to apply for citizenship while on a 191 visa?
Yes, you can seek citizenship on a 191 visa. If you are in Australia at the moment, your permanent residence begins on the day the 191 visa is granted. Depending on how much time you spend outside Australia during that period, you will be allowed to apply for citizenship four years after your 191 visa is granted.
The Permanent Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 191) transcends being a mere visa; it symbolizes an invitation to contribute, connect, and build a life in regional Australia. As visa holders weave their narratives into regional landscapes, they embark on a journey of purpose, forging a future that is not just their own but also one that enriches the regions they call home.
Do you want to convert your temporary 491 or 494 visa to a permanent 191 visa? Contact today to verify that your application is complete and ready for submission to the Department of Home Affairs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply directly for the Permanent Skilled Regional Visa?
A: No, to be eligible for this visa, you must have previously held a qualifying visa and met the temporary residence requirement.
Q: What is the temporary residence requirement?
A: The temporary residence requirement entails living, working, or studying in a designated regional area for at least three years on a qualifying visa.
A: Can my family members be included in the application?
A: Yes, family members can be included in the application, allowing them to join you in regional Australia.
Q: Is there an age limit for applying for this visa?
A: No, there is no age limit for the Permanent Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 191).
Q: Can I switch to another visa category after getting the Permanent Skilled Regional Visa?
A: Yes, after holding the Permanent Skilled Regional Visa for a certain period, you may be eligible to apply for other visa types or pathways to Australian citizenship.