491 Visa Income Requirement for Subclass 191 - What You Need to Know

The income requirement is the key condition for transitioning from a 491 visa to permanent residency via the 191 visa. Here is what you need to know.

The current threshold

The income requirement for the 191 visa is based on your taxable income. The threshold is indexed annually and is currently around $53,900 per year (check the DHA website for the exact current figure).

What counts as income

• Employment income from any lawful source (not limited to your nominated occupation)
• Self-employment income if you run a business
• The income must be reported on your Australian tax return

What does not count

• Income earned outside Australia
• Government benefits or payments
• Rental income from investment properties (in most cases)

The 3-year requirement

You must demonstrate the minimum income for at least 3 income years while holding the 491 visa. This does not need to be consecutive years, but it does need to be 3 full financial years.

Tips for meeting the requirement

• Start working as soon as possible after arriving in regional Australia
• The threshold is not high - most skilled occupations in Australia pay well above this amount
• Part-time work and casual employment count as long as the annual total meets the threshold
• Keep detailed records of all employment and income

What if you do not meet the threshold?

If you cannot meet the income requirement, you cannot apply for the 191 visa. However, the 491 visa is valid for 5 years, giving you time to find suitable employment. Consider the points calculator to explore whether a direct 189 or 190 pathway might work instead.