From Regional Visa to Permanent Residency in Australia

Australia’s regional migration system is designed with a clear goal: long-term settlement. For thousands of skilled workers, the journey begins with a provisional visa and ends with permanent residency—a milestone that transforms futures, careers, and family stability. 

What is the pathway from provisional regional visa to permanent residency? 

The regional migration pathway allows skilled workers to first live and work in designated areas under provisional visas (such as Subclass 491 or 494), and then transition to permanent residency through Subclass 191. This two-step system supports regional development while offering migrants long-term settlement opportunities. 

Understanding Provisional Regional Visas 

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa 

• Up to 5 years validity 

• Requires state/territory nomination or family sponsorship 

• Applicants must live and work in designated regional areas 

• Allows pathway to permanent residency after 3 years 

Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa 

• Employer-sponsored visa 

• Up to 5 years validity 

• Must work in an approved regional position 

• Pathway to permanent residency through Subclass 191 after 3 years 

These provisional visas are points-tested, condition-based, and designed to ensure that migrants actively contribute to regional Australia. 

The Transition to Permanent Residency 

Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa 

Available from November 2022, this visa allows eligible holders of 491 or 494 visas to apply for permanent residency, provided they meet: 

• Minimum 3 years of residence in designated regional areas 

• At least 3 years of taxable income at or above the income threshold 

• Full compliance with visa conditions throughout the provisional period 

No separate nomination is required for Subclass 191, and dependents may be included. 

What Permanent Residency Means for Skilled Migrants 

Achieving permanent residency is a pivotal moment in a migrant's journey, offering: 

• Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia 

• Access to government benefits, including Medicare 

• Pathway to Australian citizenship 

• Greater stability for families and dependents 

• Expanded employment and educational opportunities 

For many migrants, this milestone represents more than immigration status—it symbolises belonging, security, and long-term investment in their new home. 

Migrating to regional Australia with the goal of permanent residency requires long-term planning, consistent compliance, and accurate documentation. Legacy Migration offers step-by-step guidance to help clients navigate every stage of this journey with confidence. 

Legacy Migration Services Include: 

• Comprehensive consultation on Subclass 491, 494, and 191 

• Ongoing compliance support during the provisional visa period 

• Strategic planning to meet income and regional residence requirements 

• Document preparation for Subclass 191 eligibility 

• Support for family inclusion in the PR application 

Legacy Migration ensures that clients not only secure their provisional visas but also stay on track for a successful transition to permanent residency. 

Australia’s regional visa pathway offers skilled migrants a clear, achievable route to permanent residency. From initial application to long-term settlement, success depends on informed choices, compliance, and timely planning. 

Ready to take the next step toward permanent residency? Contact Legacy Migration today to plan your journey from regional visa to long-term success in Australia. 

The information, updates, news, and advice provided are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalised guidance. For accurate advice regarding your specific migration case, we invite you to reach out to us directly by sending a message through this link: https://www.legacymigration.com.au/take-your-first-step-to-living-working-or-studying-in-australia

Migration Agents Registration Number: 1797357

QEAC Number: S041