PLEASE NOTE: The regional sponsored migration scheme (187) visa closed on 16 November 2019. It has been replaced by the skilled employer-sponsored (provisional) 494 visa.
The information below does not apply to new applicants, as no further 187 applications can be lodged, but may be useful for current holders of the visa.
There are two RSMS visa streams:
If you held (or had applied for) a 457 visa on 18 April 2017, you may be eligible for PR through the 457 visa grandfathering arrangements.
If you’re currently on a 482 visa and are sponsored in an occupation from the medium-term or regional stream (and didn’t previously hold a 457 visa), you may be eligible for permanent residency when you meet the following criteria:
You may also meet the grandfathering requirements if you initially held a 457 visa and now hold a 482 visa – by combining the work experience on both visas.
Unfortunately, you cannot apply independently for this visa type; you need to be nominated by your current sponsor.
Significant changes to employer-sponsored migration policy were introduced in April 2017, leaving thousands of visa holders covered by transitional permanent residency arrangements. These are known as ‘grandfathering arrangements’ and it means that even though the 457 program is no longer running, some visa holders are still eligible for permanent residency.
Find out if you’re covered by grandfathering arrangements here or contact us for a free assessment.
If the TRT grandfathering pathways do not apply to you, the 187 DE pathway may suit you.
This visa can be lodged whilst you are offshore or onshore.
You may be eligible if you meet the following criteria:
Some occupations (mostly tradespeople) require a skill assessment as part of the 187 DE application.
We manage this with you, providing document checklists, reviewing your paperwork, lodging the application and following up with the assessment body. Each skill assessing body has different requirements and we can help you navigate through the process.
You must be sponsored for a position located in a designated regional area.
The employer must offer you a full time position that is available for at least two years on grant of the 187 visa.
You must be paid at least $53,900 + superannuation. Your employer needs to explain how the position is genuine and demonstrate that the business financials are strong enough to justify your full time position.
We can determine your eligibility for a 187 visa. Please complete our online assessment form and we will provide information on the steps, fees and process.
A 187 Direct Entry applicant needs approved from the relevant Regional Certifying Body (RCB). There are dozens of RCBs across regional Australia, each with different requirements.
We guide your sponsor through the RCB process. Each RCB has its own criteria and checklist.
If you’ve been granted a 187 visa or you intend to apply for one, you must be aware of the conditions attached to it.
Our Registered Migration Agents can check your visa eligibility and recommend the best pathway for you.
Established in 2006, we have successfully managed thousands of Australian visa applications.
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