Aus Visa Library

Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa (Subclass 487)

The Skilled Regional Sponsored (subclass 487) visa, now repealed, enabled skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia, offering insights and pathways to permanent residency despite its closure to new applicants.

Starting in plain language, this article explores the Skilled Regional Sponsored (subclass 487) visa, which is essential reading for anyone researching Australian migration pathways. Note that this visa is now repealed and no longer available for new applications, but understanding its parameters can still provide valuable insights into similar visa categories and migration plans.

Skilled Regional Sponsored (subclass 487) Visa

The Skilled Regional Sponsored (subclass 487) visa was a temporary visa that allowed skilled workers to live and work in specified regional areas of Australia. Even though it's no longer available for new applications, it played a significant role in providing pathways towards Australian permanent residency (PR).

Key Benefits and Features

  • Pathway to Permanent Residency: Although the visa itself was temporary, it provided a pathway to permanent residency after meeting certain requirements.
  • Regional Living and Working: Encouraged skilled workers to inhabit and contribute to regional communities, aiding in the development of these areas.
  • Family Sponsorship: Applicants could be sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.
  • Points-Tested: This visa was part of the points-tested skilled migration program, selecting applicants based on various factors like age, English proficiency, and work experience.

Common Challenges and Solutions

  • Regional Requirement: One of the main challenges was the requirement to live and work in a specified regional area. Applicants needed to be committed to relocating, which could be difficult for those with family ties or job opportunities in non-regional areas.

    Solution: Thorough research on living conditions, job markets, and community aspects of potential regional areas can help ease the transition.

  • Sponsor Eligibility: Finding an eligible sponsor was another hurdle for many applicants. Sponsors needed to be settled in a regional area and meet specific criteria.

    Solution: Networking through Australian community groups and online platforms could assist in identifying potential sponsors.

Common Professions and Scenarios

The subclass 487 visa attracted various professionals needed in regional Australia. Common professions included:

  • Healthcare Professionals: Nurses, medical practitioners, and allied health professionals were frequently sponsored due to high demand.
  • Engineering and IT Specialists: Civil engineers, software developers, and other technical professionals were essential for infrastructure and technology development in regional areas.
  • Tradespeople: Electricians, plumbers, and builders were crucial for regional construction projects.

Costs and Duration

  • Application Costs: The fees varied based on factors like the number of family members included in the application.
  • Duration: The visa was valid for up to three years, during which the holder needed to live and work in a specified regional area to qualify for PR pathways, like the Skilled Regional (subclass 887) visa.

Relevant Statistics

As the subclass 487 is a repealed visa, current application statistics are unavailable. However, it was part of a broader strategy to address skill shortages in regional areas, contributing to regional communities' growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the subclass 487 visa still available?

No, the subclass 487 visa has been repealed and is no longer available for new applications. Prospective migrants should explore other pathways like the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visa.

Can I still apply for PR if I held a 487 visa?

Yes, if you held a 487 visa, you might transition to PR through the subclass 887 visa, provided you meet the residency and work requirements.

Are there similar visa options available?

Yes, the subclass 491 and subclass 494 visas offer similar opportunities for skilled migrants to live and work in regional Australia, with pathways to PR.

For more detailed information, including advice on navigating Australian migration pathways, visit ausvisalibrary.com to find relevant providers and resources.

Keywords: [Visas, Australian PR, Migration, Skilled Regional Sponsored visa, subclass 487, Repealed visa, Australian migration pathways]