Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187)

The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187) visa is a permanent residency visa designed to address regional skill shortages in Australia. It allows skilled workers nominated by an employer in regional areas to live and work in Australia permanently. This visa has three streams: the Temporary Residence Transition stream, the Direct Entry stream, and the Agreement stream.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Nominated by an Employer: An employer in a designated regional area must nominate the applicant for a specific occupation.
2. Skill Assessment: The applicant’s skills must be assessed by the relevant Australian assessing authority for their nominated occupation.
3. Age Limit: The applicant must be under 45 years of age unless exemptions apply.
4. English Language Proficiency: Adequate English language skills are required (unless exempt based on nationality and occupation).
5. Work Experience: The applicant must have relevant work experience in the nominated occupation.
6. Temporary Residence Transition Stream (TRTS): This stream is for 457 or 482 visa holders who have worked for their employer for at least 3 years in the same occupation.

Application Process:

1. Nomination by Employer: The employer must nominate the applicant for a specific occupation and be approved by a Regional Certifying Body.
2. Skill Assessment: The applicant’s skills need to be assessed by the relevant Australian assessing authority.
3. Lodge Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge an EOI through the SkillSelect system, expressing the intention to apply for the Subclass 187 visa.
4. Invitation to Apply: If nominated and selected from the EOI, the applicant will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
5. Lodge Visa Application: Complete the online application, attaching all necessary documents and paying the application fee.
6. Health and Character Checks: Undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
7. Visa Grant: If the application is approved, the Subclass 187 visa will be granted, allowing permanent residency in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can family members be included in the application?
   Yes, the applicant can include their spouse/partner, dependent children, and other dependent relatives in the application.
2. What happens if the employer withdraws the nomination?
   If the employer withdraws the nomination before the visa is granted, the visa application will be refused.
3. Is there an English language requirement for the Direct Entry stream?
   Yes, applicants applying through the Direct Entry stream need to prove their English language proficiency, typically through IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL tests.
4. Can the applicant change employers after getting the Subclass 187 visa?
   The visa is granted based on the employer’s nomination. Changing employers might require a new nomination and visa application.
5. Is there a pathway to citizenship with the Subclass 187 visa?
   Yes, after meeting the residency requirements, visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship.