Live and work permanently in regional Australia
The Subclass 187 Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa allows skilled workers nominated by an approved employer in regional Australia to live and work permanently in Australia.
Basic Eligibility
To be eligible for the Subclass 187 visa, you must:
- Be nominated by an employer located in regional Australia
- Be under 45 years of age (some exemptions may apply)
- Meet skills, qualifications, and English language requirements
- Meet health and character standards
- Sign the Australian Values Statement
- Not have had a visa cancelled or refused previously
Important: From 1 July 2025, income thresholds for skilled visas will increase based on changes to Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings. Stay informed to ensure eligibility.
Visa Streams
Direct Entry Stream
This stream is now closed to new applications.
Stay: Permanent
Cost: N/A
Processing Time: Refer to the Visa Processing Time Guide Tool
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
This stream is for skilled workers who hold or held a subclass 457 or subclass 482 visa and have been employed full-time with the same regional employer for at least 2 years.
Eligibility:
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Currently or previously held a 457 or 482 visa
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Worked full-time in the nominated position in regional Australia for at least 2 years
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Nominated by the same regional employer
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Must meet English, age, and skills requirements
Stay: Permanent
Cost: From AUD 4,770
Processing Time: Use the Visa Processing Time Guide Tool
What You Can Do with This Visa
Holding the Subclass 187 visa allows you to:
- Live and work in regional Australia permanently
- Include your family members in your application
- Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
- Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
- Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
- Travel in and out of Australia for 5 years
How Widen Migration Experts Can Help You
At Widen Migration Experts, we provide dedicated support to skilled workers and regional employers navigating the complex Subclass 187 visa process. Whether you’re a transitioning worker or a business looking to retain top talent in regional Australia, we’re here to make the process seamless and successful.
We assist with:
- Eligibility assessment and regional employer compliance
- Guiding you through the Temporary Residence Transition requirements
- Assistance with nomination and visa lodgement
- Support in gathering evidence of regional employment
- Managing English language tests, skills assessments, and health checks
- Staying on top of changing policies, including income threshold updates
Let us take the stress out of your visa journey so you can focus on your career and life in regional Australia.
Start Your Path to Permanent Residency Today
Whether you’re a current 457/482 visa holder or an employer looking to retain a valuable team member, Widen Migration Experts can guide you through every step of the Subclass 187 visa process.