Skilled Regional (Residence) Visa
Australia
Last updated: December 20, 2025
Permanent
$337
13-24 months
High
About this Visa
This is a permanent visa for skilled workers who have lived and worked in regional Australia (anywhere except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane). You get it after spending 2 years living there and 1 year working there. Once approved, you stay in Australia forever. People from ANY country who held a skilled provisional visa (489, 495, 496, 475, 487) or Bridging Visa A/B and met the regional work and residence requirements can apply. Live permanently in Australia, work anywhere you want, bring your spouse and children, and access free/cheap healthcare. You can apply for citizenship after 4 years.
Key Benefits
- Live permanently in Australia
- Work anywhere without employer permission
- Bring spouse and dependent children
- Access Medicare (healthcare)
- Travel in/out of Australia for 5 years
- Sponsor family members
- Apply for citizenship after 4 years residence
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have held or currently hold visa 489, 495, 496, 475, 487, or Bridging Visa A/B
- Held eligible visa for at least 2 years
- Lived in designated regional area for 2 years
- Worked full-time (35+ hours/week) in regional area for 1 year
- Speak functional English (IELTS 4.5 or equivalent)
- Pass medical exam (X-rays and blood tests)
- Have no criminal record
- Have no unpaid debts to Australian government
- Currently living in Australia
Financial Requirement
None specified. You don't need to prove savings or income.
Documents
- Valid passportWith at least 6 months validity
- Birth certificateCertified copy
- PayslipsLast 12 months of employment records
- Employer letterConfirming job title, dates, and hours per week
- Proof of residenceBills, lease agreement, or rental contract from regional area
- English test resultsIELTS 4.5 or equivalent (TOEFL, PTE, CELPIP, etc.)
- Police clearanceFrom every country where you lived 12+ months
- Medical exam resultsDone by approved doctor (X-rays, blood tests)
- Spouse/children documentsPassports, birth certificates, and relationship proof 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.