The Subclass 191 visa enables eligible workers to live and work in Australia permanently. Designed for individuals who have lived and worked in designated regional areas, this visa offers a pathway to permanent residency for those meeting specific income and visa compliance requirements.
Key Features
- Stay: Permanently
- Cost: From AUD 490.00 (Regional Provisional Stream) | From AUD 4,765.00 (Hong Kong Stream)
- Processing Times: Use the visa processing time guide tool for estimated processing times.
Streams Under Subclass 191
Regional Provisional Stream
This stream is for individuals who have lived and worked in designated regional areas of Australia on an eligible visa.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Visa Compliance: Must hold an eligible visa for at least 3 years and comply with its conditions.
- Income Threshold: Must have a taxable income meeting the required threshold for at least 3 years while on an eligible visa.
- No Sponsorship Required: Applicants do not need a sponsor or nominator.
Benefits:
- Stay in Australia permanently.
- Work and study in Australia.
- Access public healthcare through Medicare.
- Sponsor eligible relatives to migrate to Australia.
- Travel freely to and from Australia for 5 years.
- Apply for Australian citizenship if eligible.
Hong Kong Stream
This stream is tailored for Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders who have demonstrated a commitment to living and working in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Passport Requirements: Must hold a Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport.
- Residency Requirements: Must meet specific residence conditions.
- No Sponsorship Required: Applicants do not need a sponsor or nominator.
Benefits:
- Stay in Australia permanently.
- Work and study in Australia.
- Access public healthcare through Medicare.
- Sponsor eligible relatives to migrate to Australia.
- Apply for Australian citizenship if eligible.
Processing Times
Processing times are determined on a case-by-case basis and influenced by:
- Application completeness and documentation.
- Response time to requests for additional information.
- External checks (health, character, and national security).
- Availability in the migration program.
General Requirements
- Health and Character: All applicants must meet health and character requirements.
- Australian Values Statement: Applicants aged 18 or older must agree to respect Australian values and laws.
- Debt to Government: Applicants must have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government or have arranged repayment.
- Immigration History: Visa cancellations or refusals may impact eligibility.
Additional Notes
- Travel Rights: Travel freely for 5 years from visa grant date. Afterward, apply for a Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155/157) to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident.
- Include Family Members: Immediate family members can be included in the application, provided they meet the health and character requirements.
For further assistance with your Subclass 191 visa application, consult a registered migration agent to ensure you meet all requirements and submit a strong application.
How WIDEN Migration Experts Can Help
Applying for a Subclass 191 visa requires careful attention to eligibility criteria and the submission of a comprehensive application. At WIDEN Migration, we specialise in guiding applicants through the complex process of securing their visas. Here’s how we can assist you:
Personalised Eligibility Assessment
Our migration experts evaluate your unique situation to determine your eligibility for the Subclass 191 visa. Whether you’re applying under the Regional Provisional Stream or the Hong Kong Stream, we ensure you meet all necessary requirements.
Application Preparation and Lodgement
We handle all aspects of your application, from completing forms to submitting supporting documents. Our team ensures your application is thorough and complies with immigration guidelines, minimising delays or errors.
Taxable Income Verification
For applicants under the Regional Provisional Stream, we help verify and document your taxable income to confirm you meet the required income thresholds.
Health and Character Requirements
We guide you through health checks and character documentation, ensuring compliance with Australia’s stringent requirements.
Document Review and Submission
Our experts meticulously review your documents to ensure they are accurate, complete, and meet Department of Home Affairs standards.
Professional Support for External Checks
We liaise with relevant agencies for health, character, and security checks, streamlining the process and keeping you informed every step of the way.
Ongoing Guidance and Updates
We provide regular updates on your application’s progress and assist with responding promptly to any requests for additional information.
Post-Visa Assistance
Once your visa is granted, we offer support with settling in Australia, including advice on regional work opportunities, permanent residency rights, and pathways to citizenship.
Why Choose WIDEN Migration?
With extensive experience in Australian immigration laws and a commitment to personalised service, WIDEN Migration ensures your application process is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re an individual or a family, we work diligently to help you achieve your dream of living and working in Australia permanently.
Contact WIDEN Migration today to get started on your Subclass 191 visa journey!