Afrovo

Subclass 491 to Permanent Residency: Step-by-Step Guide for Nigerians and Africans

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa – Subclass 491 is a popular choice for Nigerians and Africans who want to live, work, and study in regional Australia while building their Permanent Residency (PR) eligibility.

The good news? The 491 is designed to lead to PR through the Skilled Regional Permanent Visa (Subclass 191), but only if you meet all the requirements.

Afrovo helps clients plan from day one so that when the time comes, their PR application is smooth and stress-free.

Step 1 – Understand the 491 Visa Conditions

To be eligible for PR via the 191 visa, you must:

  • Live in a designated regional area for at least 3 years

  • Work in regional employment for 3 years

  • Earn a minimum taxable income (currently AUD $53,900 per year) for those 3 years

  • Comply with all visa conditions (e.g., living and working regionally, notifying changes)

 

Step 2 – Keep Detailed Records

You’ll need to prove your:

  • Regional residential addresses

  • Employment contracts, payslips, and tax returns

  • Income meeting the threshold for each of the 3 years

 

Step 3 – Plan Your Employment Early

  • Target regional jobs in your nominated occupation

  • Ensure your role meets the full-time definition (38 hours/week)

  • Avoid long gaps between jobs

 

Step 4 – Apply for the Subclass 191 Visa

Once eligible:

  1. Gather evidence of 3 years’ residence, work, and income

  2. Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs

  3. Wait for PR approval (processing times vary)

 

Benefits of PR After the 491

  • Live and work anywhere in Australia

  • Access to Medicare

  • No regional work restrictions

  • Pathway to citizenship

 

How Afrovo Supports Your 491 to PR Transition

  • Advise on eligible regional areas and occupations

  • Help secure regional employment

  • Track income and residency compliance

  • Prepare PR application with complete evidence

 

“Afrovo guided me from day one of my 491 visa. Three years later, I applied for PR without stress and got approved in months.”
— Joseph, 491 Visa Holder, NSW

 

🎯 On a 491 visa and want to prepare for PR?
👉 Book a 491-to-PR Strategy Session

📋 Still deciding between 491 and other skilled visas?
👉 Get a Skilled Visa Consultation with Afrovo

 

Achieve Your Migration Journey Today with Afrovo.

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