The 187 visa program is permanent residency for skilled workers nominated by a qualifying employer in regional Australia.
This visa was introduced on 01 07 2012. Despite the word “sponsored” it is not sponsorship as the employer (nominator) has no residual obligations to the employee (nominee) after visa grant – as opposed to the 457 where employers maintain ongoing obligations during the life of the visa.
Under this program the employee makes himself/herself available to work for the employer for the next two (2) years after granting of the visa (if the employer wishes to maintain such employment).
The RSMS visa is for skilled workers from outside Australia or skilled temporary residents, including students, who currently live and work in Australia.
There is no list of occupations for this visa. However the nominated occupation must be on skill level 1 (degree), 2 (diploma), or 3 (cert III of IV). These 3 skill levels account for more than 1,500 occupations.
To apply for this visa, one must:
-be nominated by an employer who will nominate the future employee for a position in their business in regional Australia.
-be younger than 50 years of age
-meet the skills and qualifications requirements
-meet English language requirements
-There are exemptions relating to age, skills, and English language ability. These will depend on the nominated occupation, salary, and past work experience.
Employers
To participate on the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme an employer is required to:
-Operate an active and lawful business activity in regional Australia;
-Have a genuine need for a paid employee to fill a skilled position;
-Offer a skilled position in the applicant’s field that is full-time and ongoing for at least two years;
-Pay a market salary rate;
-Comply with Australian immigration and workplace relations laws;
-Have no adverse information against the business or individuals relevant to the business;
-Nominate a skilled position.
This program has three processing stages:
2. Position Nomination
3. Visa Application
Basic documentation needed from the employer/business (additional documents likely to be required depending on each case):
-Australian Business Number (ABN) Registration Certificate;
-ACN Certificate or Trust Deed or Partnership Agreement;
-Profit and Loss Statement or a Non Disclosure of Financial Details letter from the company accountant OR any other acceptable evidence to prove lawful operation in regional Australia;
-Organizational Structure Chart;
-Evidence of need for a paid employee;
-Evidence the position is available for at least 2 consecutive years.
Main costs:
-Regional certification charge depending on certifying body. Certification fee will vary according to Certifying Body;
-Visa Application Charge from $3,520 (single applicant);
-Migration agent fees, when applicable.
Regional Australia:
For a list of regional postcodes click here
