The Subclass 187 Visa also known as the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa, offers skilled workers a pathway to permanent residency in Australia. This visa is designed to help Australian employers in regional areas fill positions with overseas talent, where they cannot find a suitable local workforce. For professionals seeking a stable career in regional Australia, the Subclass 187 Visa presents an excellent opportunity to secure permanent residency while contributing to the local economy.
Key Features of the Subclass 187 Visa
- Permanent Residency: This visa allows successful applicants to live, work, and study in Australia as permanent residents.
- Regional Focus: The Subclass 187 Visa is specifically for skilled workers who are nominated by an employer in a designated regional area of Australia.
- Family Inclusion: Applicants can include eligible family members in their visa application, allowing them to also become permanent residents.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After holding this visa, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
Streams of the Subclass 187 Visa
The Subclass 187 Visa has two main streams:
- Direct Entry Stream: This stream is for individuals who have not previously worked in Australia, or for those who have worked in Australia but do not qualify for the Temporary Residence Transition stream. Applicants must be nominated by a regional employer and have the necessary skills for the position.
- Temporary Residence Transition Stream: This stream is for individuals who already hold a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) or other eligible temporary visas and have worked with the same employer in a regional area for at least three years. Applicants can transition to permanent residency through this stream.
Eligibility Requirements for Subclass 187 Visa
To apply for the Subclass 187 Visa, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, which include:
- Nomination by a Regional Employer: Applicants must be nominated by an approved employer in a regional area of Australia for a skilled position.
- Skills and Qualifications: You must have the skills and qualifications necessary for the position being nominated. In many cases, a skills assessment is required.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must generally be under 45 years of age, unless an exemption applies.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements through an approved test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Work Experience: You must have relevant work experience in your nominated occupation, with the exact requirements depending on the stream under which you apply.
- Health and Character Requirements: All applicants must meet Australia’s health and character requirements by undergoing medical exams and providing police clearances.
Application Process for Subclass 187 Visa
The process of applying for the Subclass 187 Visa follows these key steps:
- Employer Nomination: The employer submits a nomination to the Department of Home Affairs, detailing the position and the need for a skilled worker in a regional area.
- Visa Application: Once the nomination is approved, the applicant can submit their visa application. This includes providing necessary documents, such as proof of skills, qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency.
- Await Visa Decision: The Department of Home Affairs will assess the application, and if successful, the applicant will be granted permanent residency through the Subclass 187 Visa.
Benefits of the Subclass 187 Visa
The Subclass 187 Visa provides a wide range of benefits to skilled workers and their families:
- Permanent Residency: You and your family can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia with access to healthcare and other social benefits.
- Family Inclusion: Your spouse and dependent children can be included in your visa application and enjoy the same benefits.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After living in Australia as a permanent resident for a certain period, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
- Job Security: This visa offers a clear path to permanent residency for skilled workers who are committed to working in regional Australia.
Why Choose the Subclass 187 Visa?
The Subclass 187 Visa is a great option for skilled workers who are seeking to build a life in regional Australia. It offers long-term security through permanent residency and helps bridge the gap between regional employers and skilled international workers. By choosing this visa, you are also contributing to the development and growth of Australia’s regional areas.
Employers in regional Australia benefit from access to a skilled workforce, while employees gain the opportunity to live in less populated, often more affordable areas, while enjoying all the advantages of Australian permanent residency.
Conclusion
The Subclass 187 Visa is an excellent pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers seeking to make a meaningful contribution to regional Australia. Whether you are applying through the Direct Entry or Temporary Residence Transition stream, this visa provides a clear path to living and working in Australia permanently. With its family inclusion options and potential for Australian citizenship, the Subclass 187 Visa offers a secure and promising future for skilled professionals in regional areas.