Are you looking to live and work in Australia? The Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) is a popular visa for those looking to gain permanent residency in Australia and move to regional areas of the country. This visa is designed to assist those looking to fill skills shortages in regional Australia, and offers a pathway to Australian permanent residency. With this visa, you can live, work, and study in regional Australia and access the same benefits as other permanent residents.
What is a Skilled Regional Visa
The Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) is a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to live and work in Australia. This visa is specifically designed to help fill skills shortages in regional areas of the country, and it offers a pathway to Australian permanent residency. With the Skilled Regional visa, you can enjoy all the benefits of being a permanent resident, including the ability to live, work, and study in regional Australia.
One of the great benefits of the Skilled Regional visa is that it allows you to live and work in any regional area of Australia. Regional areas often offer a lower cost of living and a higher quality of life compared to major cities. You also have the opportunity to access various government services and benefits, including Medicare, the Australian healthcare system.
Eligibility Criteria for 887 Visa
To be eligible for the Skilled Regional visa 887, there are certain criteria that you must meet.
Firstly, you must have lived in a specified regional area of Australia for at least two years. This means that you have actually resided in one of the designated regional areas, such as certain parts of New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, or the Northern Territory, for the required duration.
In addition to meeting the residency requirement, you must also have worked full-time in a specified regional area for at least one year. This means that you have been employed on a full-time basis in one of the regional areas for a continuous period of 12 months.
It is important to note that you must also hold a subclass 489, 495, 496, 475, or 487 visa, or a Bridging visa A or B after having held one of these visas, to be eligible for the Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887). This means that you must have held one of these visas before applying for the 887 visa.
Furthermore, you must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government. This includes providing evidence of good character and undergoing a health examination. It is crucial to meet these requirements to be considered eligible for the visa.
Benefits of the Skilled Regional Visa 887
The Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) offers a wide range of benefits for those looking to live and work in regional Australia. First and foremost, this visa provides a pathway to Australian permanent residency, allowing individuals to make a long-term commitment to their new home. With this visa, you can enjoy the same benefits as other permanent residents, including the ability to live, work, and study in regional Australia.
One of the major advantages of the visa 887 is the opportunity to experience a higher quality of life in regional areas. Compared to major cities, regional areas often offer a lower cost of living, cleaner environment, and a more relaxed pace of life. This allows you to enjoy a better work-life balance and take advantage of the natural beauty and recreational activities that regional Australia has to offer.
Another significant benefit of the Skilled Regional visa is the access to various government services and benefits. As a permanent resident, you can access the Australian healthcare system, known as Medicare, which provides affordable medical care and treatments. You can also access education and welfare services, ensuring that you and your family have the support you need to thrive in your new community.
Additionally, the visa allows you to have full work rights, giving you the opportunity to pursue your career and contribute to the regional economy. This can open up a range of employment opportunities and help you establish a stable and prosperous future for yourself and your family.
Documents Required for the Visa 887
When applying for the visa 887, there are several documents that you will need to provide to support your application. These documents are crucial in demonstrating your eligibility for the visa and ensuring a smooth and successful application process.
Firstly, you will need to provide proof of your residency in a specified regional area of Australia for at least two years. This can be done by submitting documents such as rental agreements, utility bills, or bank statements showing your residential address. These documents should clearly state your name, address, and the period of time you have resided in the regional area.
In addition to proof of residency, you will also need to provide evidence of your full-time employment in a specified regional area for at least one year. This can be in the form of payslips, employment contracts, or tax documents that show your employment history and the hours worked per week. It is important that these documents clearly state the name of your employer, your job title, the dates of employment, and the number of hours worked.
Furthermore, you will need to provide your current visa details, including the subclass and visa number. This can be found on your current visa grant letter or any correspondence from the Department of Home Affairs regarding your visa.
It is important to ensure that all documents provided are clear, legible, and up to date. Any documents that are not in English will need to be translated by a certified translator. It is also recommended to keep copies of all documents for your own records.
Applying for 887 Visa in Australia
Once you have determined that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Skilled Regional visa, you can begin the application process. Applying for the visa is a straightforward process, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure a successful outcome.
To apply for the visa, you will need to submit an online application through the Australian government’s Department of Home Affairs website. The application will require you to provide personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and contact details. You will also need to provide details about your current visa, including the subclass and visa number.
In addition to personal information, you will need to provide supporting documents to support your application. These documents may include proof of residency in a specified regional area, such as rental agreements or utility bills. You will also need to provide evidence of your full-time employment in a regional area for at least one year, such as payslips or employment contracts.
It is important to ensure that all documents provided are clear, legible, and up to date. Any documents that are not in English will need to be translated by a certified translator. It is also recommended to keep copies of all documents for your own records.
Once you have submitted your application and supporting documents, you will need to pay the visa application fee. The fee can vary depending on individual circumstances, so it is important to check the current fee schedule on the Department of Home Affairs website.
After submitting your application and paying the fee, the Department of Home Affairs will begin processing your visa application. The processing time can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of your case and the current workload of the department. You can check the estimated processing time on the Department of Home Affairs website.
During the processing period, it is important to keep your contact details up to date and notify the department of any changes in circumstances. You may also be asked to provide additional information or attend an interview as part of the application process.
Once your visa application is approved, you will receive a notification from the Department of Home Affairs. You will then be granted the Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) and can start planning your move to regional Australia.
Processing Time for 887 Visa
The processing time for the Skilled Regional visa can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your case and the current workload of the Department of Home Affairs. While it is difficult to provide an exact timeline, it is generally quicker compared to other visa subclasses.
It is important to keep in mind that each application is unique, and processing times can vary greatly. On average, the Department of Home Affairs aims to process 75% of Skilled Regional visa applications within 14 months. However, it is not uncommon for some applications to be processed more quickly, while others may take longer.
To stay updated on the progress of your visa application, you can check the estimated processing time on the Department of Home Affairs website. The website provides the most accurate and up-to-date information on processing times for different visa subclasses.
During the processing period, it is crucial to keep your contact details up to date. This ensures that the Department of Home Affairs can easily reach you if they need any additional information or if there are any updates regarding your application. It is also important to notify the department of any changes in circumstances that may affect your visa application.
Fee for an 887 Visa
The fee is an important consideration when applying for this visa. The exact fee can vary depending on individual circumstances, so it is essential to check the current fee schedule on the Department of Home Affairs website. Paying the fee is a necessary step in the application process, and it is important to ensure that the payment is made correctly and on time. Keep in mind that the fee is subject to change, so it is always a good idea to stay updated with the latest information provided by the Department of Home Affairs.
Meeting the Visa 887 Points Requirement
To be eligible for the visa, you must meet certain criteria, including meeting the visa 887 points requirement. The points requirement is a way for the Australian government to assess your suitability for the visa and your potential contribution to regional Australia.
The points system takes into account various factors such as age, English language proficiency, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant factors. To meet the visa 887 points requirement, you will need to earn a certain number of points based on these factors.
For example, having a higher level of English proficiency and advanced qualifications can earn you more points. Similarly, having work experience in a high-demand occupation or in regional Australia can also contribute to your points tally.
It is important to note that the specific number of points required can vary, and it is essential to consult the Australian government’s Department of Home Affairs website or seek professional advice to determine the exact requirements for your situation.
Regional Work Requirements and Pathway to Citizenship
Once you have obtained the Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) and settled in regional Australia, there are certain work requirements you must fulfill. These regional work requirements are an essential part of the visa and contribute to the pathway to Australian citizenship.
Under the Skilled Regional visa, you must work full-time in a regional area for at least two years. This means that you need to secure employment in a regional area and commit to working for a continuous period of 24 months. This work can be in any occupation and does not necessarily need to be related to your nominated skilled occupation.
Completing the regional work requirement not only fulfills your obligations under the visa but also opens up opportunities for career growth and integration into the regional community. It allows you to contribute to the regional economy and establish yourself as a valuable member of your new home.
Once you have successfully completed the regional work requirement, you become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship. Australian citizenship offers numerous benefits, including the ability to vote, access government services, and enjoy a sense of belonging and identity in your new country.
Embarking on the pathway to Australian citizenship is an exciting opportunity to fully integrate into the Australian community and enjoy all the rights and privileges that come with being a citizen. It is a culmination of your journey from a skilled worker to a valued member of society in regional Australia.
Conclusion
The Skilled Regional visa offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to live and work in regional Australia. This visa provides a pathway to Australian permanent residency, allowing you to make a long-term commitment to your new home. With the ability to live, work, and study in regional areas, you can enjoy a higher quality of life, lower cost of living, and access to various government services and benefits. The Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) also gives you the chance to contribute to the regional economy and establish a stable and prosperous future for yourself and your family. By meeting the residency and work requirements, you can fulfill your obligations under the visa and eventually become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship. So, if you’re looking for a way to live and work in Australia while enjoying the benefits of regional living, the Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) may be the perfect choice for you. Don’t hesitate to explore this opportunity and embark on an exciting journey to regional Australia.
FAQ
Q: Can I apply for the Visa 887 if I haven’t lived in a regional area for two years?
A: No, one of the key eligibility criteria for this visa is having lived in a specified regional area of Australia for at least two years. This is a requirement that you must fulfill in order to be considered eligible for the visa.
Q: Can I apply for the Visa 887 without holding a subclass 489, 495, 496, 475, or 487 visa?
A: No, to be eligible for the Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887), you must have held one of these visas, or a Bridging visa A or B after having held one of these visas.
Q: How long does it take for the Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) to be processed?
A: The processing time for this visa can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your case and the current workload of the Department of Home Affairs. On average, the department aims to process 75% of applications within 14 months.
Q: What documents do I need to provide for the visa application?
A: Some of the documents you may need to provide include proof of residency in a specified regional area, evidence of full-time employment in a regional area, and your current visa details. It is important to ensure that all documents are clear, legible, and up to date.
