Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Visa (Subclass 119/857)

Start your journey towards understanding the Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme (subclass 119 and 857) visas here. This comprehensive article will guide you through the nuances of these visas, which are now repealed and no longer available for new applications.

Introduction to the Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme (Subclass 119 and 857)

The Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme (RSMS) visas, subclass 119 and 857, were integral parts of Australia's commitment to supporting regional development. They allowed employers in regional areas to sponsor skilled workers for permanent residence. Despite their repeal, understanding these visas offers valuable insights into Australia's immigration landscape.

Key Benefits and Features

Benefits of the RSMS Visas

Pathway to Permanent Residency: These visas granted permanent residency to skilled workers, facilitating their long-term integration into Australian society.
Employment Stability: Sponsored employees were required to work for their sponsoring employer for at least two years, providing job security.
Regional Development: By attracting skilled workers to regional areas, these visas contributed significantly to the economic growth of less populous regions.

Features of the RSMS Visas

Employer Sponsorship: Employers in designated regional areas could nominate skilled workers to fill vacancies that could not be filled locally.
Skill and Qualification Assessment: Applicants needed to possess relevant skills and qualifications, verified through a rigorous assessment process.
Commitment to Regional Living: Visa holders were expected to live and work in regional Australia, supporting the decentralization of population and labor.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenges

Skill Recognition Delays: Many applicants faced delays in the recognition of their overseas qualifications.
Regional Relocation: Adjusting to life in regional areas differed significantly from urban settings, posing challenges for some migrants.

Solutions

Proactive Skill Assessment: Applicants were encouraged to start the skill assessment process early to avoid delays.
Community Support Programs: Various regional communities offered support programs to help migrants settle and integrate smoothly.

Common Professions and Professionals

Typically, the RSMS visas attracted professionals from industries that faced skill shortages, such as:

Healthcare professionals (nurses, doctors, allied health)
Agricultural workers and managers
Engineers and technical experts
Educational professionals (teachers and academic staff)
Tradespeople (electricians, plumbers, carpenters)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these visas still available?

No, the subclass 119 and 857 visas have been repealed and are not open for new applications. However, understanding their history is important for grasping the evolution of Australian migration policies.

What was the cost of applying for these visas?

While these visas were available, applicants typically faced costs related to application fees, skill assessment, and migration agent fees. The exact cost varied based on individual circumstances.

How long did the visa processing take?

Processing times varied, but applicants generally experienced waits of several months, depending on the complexity of their application and the volume of submissions.

Relevant Statistics or Data

During their operation, the RSMS visas were instrumental in addressing regional skill shortages. A significant percentage of these visas were granted to healthcare professionals, highlighting the demand for skilled workers in regional healthcare services.

Conclusion

While the Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme (subclass 119 and 857) visas are no longer available, they played a crucial role in shaping regional migration and development policies in Australia. For updated information on current visa options and providers, visit ausvisalibrary.com.

Keywords: Visas, Australian PR, Migration, Regional Development, Skilled Workers, Permanent Residency