The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) visa allows skilled workers nominated by an employer in regional Australia to live and work permanently in Australia. This visa has a Temporary Residence Transition stream for workers transitioning from temporary work visas.
Temporary Residence Transition Stream
This stream allows skilled workers who have held temporary work visas, such as subclass 457 or TSS, to transition to permanent residency after working in a regional area for at least two years.
Eligibility Requirements
- Current Visa Status: You must be a holder of a subclass 457, subclass 482 (TSS) visa, or a related Bridging visa A, B, or C.
- Work Experience: You must have worked for your nominating employer in regional Australia for at least 2 years full-time while holding a subclass 457 or TSS visa.
- Nominator’s Approval: The employer who nominates you must have an approved nomination within the past 6 months before you apply.
What You Can Do with this Visa
- Permanent Residency: Stay in Australia indefinitely.
- Work and Study: Live, work, and study in Australia.
- Healthcare: Enrol in Australia’s public health care scheme, Medicare.
- Sponsorship: Sponsor eligible family members to come to Australia.
- Travel: Travel in and out of Australia for up to 5 years.
- Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible.
Employer Obligations
Employers who sponsor workers under the subclass 187 visa are required to meet certain conditions:
- Employment Conditions: Employers must offer terms and conditions of employment that are at least as favorable as those provided to Australian citizens or permanent residents performing the same job in the same location. This includes salary, work hours, and leave entitlements.
- Salary: Employers must pay the worker the annual market salary rate.
- Compliance: Employers must comply with Australian immigration laws and workplace relations regulations.
Key Things to Note
- The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) provides a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers nominated by employers in regional areas of Australia.
- Workers must have worked in a regional location and meet the work experience and employer nomination requirements.
- This visa is available for workers currently holding a subclass 457 or subclass 482 (TSS) visa.
- Employers must meet specific requirements to nominate a worker for this visa, including compliance with employment and salary standards.