The Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) offers a pathway to permanent residency in Australia for individuals who have lived and worked in regional areas. This visa is unique because it doesn't require a points-based test.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Hold an eligible temporary visa.
- Have lived in a regional or designated area of Australia for at least two years.
- Have worked in a regional or designated area of Australia for at least twelve months.
- Be physically present in Australia when applying.
887 Visa Eligibility
To be eligible for the Skilled Regional visa (Subclass 887), you must:
- Hold an eligible temporary visa (e.g., Subclass 489, 495, 496, 475, or a related Bridging Visa A/B).
- Have lived in a regional Australian area for at least two years.
- Have worked in a regional Australian area for at least 12 months (full-time or equivalent).
- Meet health and character requirements (including police certificates)
- Have no outstanding government debts.
- Sign the Australian Values Statement (if 18+).
- Demonstrate functional English.
Applying for the Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887)
The Subclass 887 visa application is an online process, with a typical processing time of 17-22 months.
Before applying, ensure your passport is valid. You'll need to gather all essential documents, including identity and relationship proof, police certificates, evidence of English proficiency, and any dependent's documents. After submitting your online application, you may be issued a bridging visa if needed. You'll also undergo health exams and provide biometrics. The final decision on your visa will be communicated via email.
What if you want to apply for a longer stay?
Since the Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 887) is a permanent visa, you can live in Australia indefinitely. While it allows for unlimited travel in and out of Australia for the first five years, this travel component eventually expires. However, by meeting the eligibility criteria and following the protocols, you can often achieve Australian citizenship within these first five years, which then removes any travel restrictions.