Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme
Australia
Last updated: December 20, 2025
Permanent
$4640
6-28 months
High
About this Visa
The 187 visa lets you move permanently to Australia if an employer in a regional area sponsors you. You get permanent residency, not just temporary work permission. Only the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream is open now—the Direct Entry stream closed in 2019. This visa is for people who already work in Australia on a temporary visa (457 or 482) and want to stay permanently. Your employer must sponsor you from outside major cities. What makes it special: You get permanent residency directly. After 2 years, you can work for anyone, not just your sponsor. You can bring your spouse and children.
Key Benefits
- Live and work in Australia forever
- Work for any employer after 2 years
- Free healthcare (Medicare)
- Bring spouse and dependent children
- Study without restrictions
- Travel in/out of Australia for 5 years
- Apply for citizenship after 4 years in Australia
- Your family gets permanent residency too
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Under 45 years old (exceptions for doctors, scientists, highly paid workers)
- Worked full-time for sponsoring employer 2–3 years on 457 or 482 visa
- Speak basic English
- No serious criminal record
- Pass health check
- Occupation on Australia's skilled list
- Employer in regional area (not Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Newcastle, Wollongong)
- Good work references
Financial Requirement
Your employer must pay you at least AUD $76,515 per year (updated July 2025). They must prove they can afford this. You don't need to show your own savings.
Documents
- PassportValid passport
- Work proofEmployer letters, 2–3 years of pay slips, employment contract
- Police certificatesClean record from countries where you lived 12+ months
- English testIELTS results (level varies—check with Department of Home Affairs)
- Medical examHealth check (arranged by Australia)
- Employer documentsBusiness registration, financial statements, proof job is real
- Family documentsMarriage certificate, birth certificates (if including family)
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.