The Australia Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (Subclass 187) is a popular immigration option for skilled workers who wish to live and work in regional Australia. The visa allows foreign nationals to be sponsored by an Australian employer to work in a specified occupation within designated regional areas. This visa is designed to help regional Australia attract and retain skilled workers, thereby improving the economy and addressing labor shortages in various industries.
If you’re considering applying for the RSMS visa, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements, benefits, application process, required documents, fees, and recent updates. This detailed guide will help you navigate through the process, and understand how “Visas Abroad Services LLP,” India’s leading immigration company, can support your application.
Table of Contents:
- What is the RSMS Visa (Subclass 187)?
- Eligibility Criteria for RSMS Visa
- Benefits of RSMS Visa
- Step-by-Step Application Process for RSMS Visa
- Required Documents Checklist
- RSMS Visa Fees
- Proof of Funds for RSMS Visa
- Recent Updates and News
- How Visas Abroad Services LLP Can Help You
- Meta Keywords
1. What is the RSMS Visa (Subclass 187)?
The RSMS Visa (Subclass 187) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer to work in regional areas. This visa allows you to live and work in Australia permanently while contributing to regional economic growth.
The Subclass 187 visa is part of the employer-sponsored visa program, and it enables workers to relocate to Australia’s regional areas (i.e., areas outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane) where there is a shortage of skilled workers.
2. Eligibility Criteria for RSMS Visa
To be eligible for the RSMS Visa (Subclass 187), applicants must meet certain criteria:
| Eligibility Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | You must be under 45 years of age at the time of application. |
| Skills | You must possess the skills, qualifications, and experience required for the nominated occupation. |
| English Proficiency | You must demonstrate a minimum level of English proficiency (usually IELTS 6.0 or equivalent). |
| Health and Character Requirements | Applicants must meet the health and character standards set by the Australian government. |
| Sponsorship | You must be nominated by an Australian employer who operates in a regional area. |
| Work Experience | Typically, applicants need at least 3 years of relevant work experience in their nominated occupation. |
3. Benefits of RSMS Visa
The RSMS Visa provides several benefits for skilled workers, making it a desirable option for many:
- Permanent Residency: The visa allows you to live and work in Australia permanently.
- Family Inclusion: You can include your family members (spouse and dependent children) in your visa application.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After living in Australia for a few years on a permanent visa, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
- Work Flexibility: You can work for any employer in the nominated occupation and any location in a regional area.
- Health and Education Benefits: Permanent residents enjoy healthcare benefits through Medicare and access to Australian education.
4. Step-by-Step Application Process for RSMS Visa
The application process for the RSMS Visa (Subclass 187) involves several key steps:
Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a Regional Employer
Before you can apply for the RSMS Visa, you must be nominated by an Australian employer in a regional area. The employer must submit a nomination application to the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf.
Step 2: Apply for the Visa
Once the nomination is approved, you can submit your visa application online through the ImmiAccount portal. Ensure that all the required documents are submitted to avoid delays.
Step 3: Provide Health and Character Documents
You will need to complete a medical examination and provide police clearance certificates from any country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
Step 4: Wait for Visa Approval
Once your application is submitted, the Department of Home Affairs will assess your visa application. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes between 6 months to 1 year.
Step 5: Receive Your Visa
If your application is approved, you will receive your Subclass 187 visa. You can then move to Australia and start your new life in a regional area.
5. Required Documents Checklist
Here’s a checklist of the documents required when applying for the RSMS Visa:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Skills assessment results
- Employer nomination letter
- Resume and employment references
- IELTS or English language proficiency test results
- Police clearance certificates
- Health examination results
- Proof of relationship with family members (if applying with dependents)
6. RSMS Visa Fees
The visa application fees for the RSMS Visa (Subclass 187) are as follows:
| Visa Application Fee | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Primary Applicant | $4,115 |
| Additional Applicant (18 years or older) | $2,060 |
| Additional Applicant (under 18) | $1,035 |
Please note that these fees may vary, and additional costs may arise for medical exams, police clearances, and other services.
7. Proof of Funds for RSMS Visa
The RSMS Visa requires applicants to demonstrate that they can support themselves financially in Australia. The Department of Home Affairs may request proof of funds to ensure that applicants do not rely on public assistance. This can include:
- Bank statements from the past 3-6 months
- Pay slips
- Tax returns
- Evidence of assets or investments
The required amount may vary, but typically, applicants should have enough funds to cover their living expenses for at least the first few months in Australia.
8. Recent Updates and News
As of January 2025, the Australian government has made some changes to the RSMS Visa program:
- Regional Areas Expanded: The government has expanded the list of designated regional areas, offering more opportunities for skilled workers to live and work in Australia.
- Skill Shortages: Several industries in regional areas are still facing skill shortages, which increases the chances of receiving sponsorship and approval for the RSMS Visa.
9. How Visas Abroad Services LLP Can Help You
Visas Abroad Services LLP is India’s leading immigration consultancy, located in Gaur City Mall, Noida. They offer expert immigration services for individuals looking to apply for the RSMS Visa. Here’s how they can assist:
- Expert Guidance: Visas Abroad Services LLP will guide you through the entire visa application process.
- Document Preparation: They will help you gather and prepare the necessary documents to meet the Australian government’s requirements.
- Sponsorship Assistance: The company can connect you with reputable regional employers who are willing to sponsor skilled workers.
- Visa Filing: Their team of experts will ensure that your visa application is filed accurately and on time.
- Post-Visa Services: Visas Abroad offers continued support after your visa is granted, including settlement services.
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By understanding the process, eligibility, and benefits of the RSMS Visa (Subclass 187), you can make an informed decision about moving to Australia and pursuing your career in a regional area. Visas Abroad Services LLP is here to help you navigate the complexities of immigration, making your journey to Australia as smooth as possible.
