As part of the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS), a subclass 187 visa allows Australian employers to sponsor foreign employees to live and work in regional Australia permanently. Regional Australia generally encompasses areas outside of the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Wollongong and Melbourne. It offers open spaces, less expensive life styles and the wonderful Australian environment for people to enjoy. Many regional centres also have strong cultural diversity and well established migrant communities.

How does it work?

There are three streams available to employees:

• The Temporary Residence Transition stream;
• The Direct Entry stream; and
• The Agreement stream.

Each stream has general criteria that must be satisfied, in order for applicants to be eligible. The following criteria must be met for all streams:

• Applicants must be less than 50 years of age when making the application;
• Be nominated by an approved Australian employer, who will sponsor them in a position in regional Australia;
• Have the required skills and/or qualifications to perform the position; and
• Be paid the market rate.

There are exemptions available in limited circumstances. Please contact our Migration team to find out more.

Are you looking at employing someone under a subclass 187 visa?

Employers wishing to sponsor someone under a 187 visa have specific obligations which they must fulfill to become and remain an eligible sponsor. It is important that employers are aware of their obligations as sponsors.

Our Migration team can provide both employees and employers with the expertise needed to navigate your way through these tricky processes. If you have a query, or would just like some more information, please feel free to contact our Migration team today. Our team of skilled Registered Migration Agents and Immigration Lawyers will assist you with any subclass 187 visa issues you may have or if you wish to begin your Australian visa application.