Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887)

The Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887) is a permanent residency visa for individuals who have lived and worked in regional Australia under a previous eligible visa. This visa allows you to continue your journey in Australia as a permanent resident and provides access to various benefits, including work rights, healthcare, and potential citizenship.

Who Can Apply?

• Must hold an eligible skilled visa (e.g., Subclass 489)
• Must have lived in regional Australia for at least 2 years
• Must have worked full-time (35 hours/week) in regional Australia for at least 12 months
• Must have complied with all conditions of the eligible visa
• Must meet health, character, and English language requirements

You and any family members applying must be in Australia when submitting the application and when the visa is granted.

Residence & Work Requirements

Residence:

To qualify, you must have lived in:

• A regional or low-population growth area (if nominated by a state/territory)
• A designated regional area (if sponsored by an eligible family member)

Work:

• Must have worked full-time for 12 months in regional Australia
• Can combine multiple part-time jobs to meet the 35-hour weekly requirement
• Work can be in any occupation, not just the nominated occupation

Language & Character Requirements

English Proficiency:

• Must have functional English, or
• Pay the second installment of the visa application fee

Character Clearance:

• Must pass Australia’s character test under Section 501 of the Migration Act 1958
• Required for both visa applications and Australian citizenship eligibility

Benefits of the Subclass 887 Visa

• Live & work in Australia permanently
• Access Medicare – Australia’s public healthcare system
• Sponsor eligible relatives for Australian visas
• Travel in and out of Australia for 5 years
• Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)

Newly arrived residents may have to wait before accessing certain government benefits.

Including Family in Your Application

Who can be included?

• Spouse/partner and dependent children currently holding an eligible visa
• Family members must meet health and character requirements
• Family members not accompanying you may still need to meet health requirements

Newborn Children:

• If your child is born in Australia while you hold an eligible visa, you must inform the authorities before lodging your application.

How Long Can You Stay?

Permanent Residency: You can stay in Australia indefinitely.

Travel Component: The travel facility on this visa is valid for 5 years from the date of grant.

Citizenship Eligibility: Your permanent residency starts on the day your visa is granted, which counts towards your eligibility for Australian citizenship.

At Better Choice Migration, we provide expert assistance to ensure a smooth Subclass 887 visa application process. Turn your regional visa into permanent residency today!