Skilled Regional (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 887): Pathway to Australian PR
Visa Class
887
Length of Stay
Permanent
Cost
From AUD 500
Australia Skilled Regional (Permanent) Visa – Subclass 887
The Skilled Regional (Permanent) Visa – Subclass 887 is designed for skilled workers who have already lived, worked, and studied in designated regional areas of Australia on an eligible visa. It allows applicants and their families to transition from a provisional visa to permanent residency, unlocking the benefits of living and working in Australia permanently.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Subclass 887 visa, applicants must:
Hold an eligible visa such as Subclass 489, 495, 496, 475, or 487, or the Bridging Visa A or B granted after applying for a subclass 489, 495 or 487 visa.
Have lived in a designated regional area of Australia for at least 2 years.
Have worked full-time (35 hours a week) in a regional area for at least 12 months.
Meet the English language requirement (functional English).
Satisfy standard health and character criteria.
Application Process
Ensure you meet the residency and work requirements in a regional area.
Prepare necessary documents including work references, residential proof, and identification.
Submit an online application through ImmiAccount.
Pay the visa application fee.
Wait for processing and provide additional information if requested.
Receive your permanent residency visa grant.
Understanding the Points Test
Unlike other skilled visas (Subclass 189, 190, or 491), the Subclass 887 visa does not require a points test. Your eligibility is based on fulfilling the residence and work conditions in regional Australia. This makes it one of the most straightforward permanent residency pathways for eligible regional visa holders.
Common Issues Applicants Face
- Insufficient work evidence: Many applicants fail to provide payslips, tax records, or employer letters showing 12 months of full-time work.
Not meeting regional residence rules: Living outside designated regional postcodes may cause refusal.
Timing of application: Applying before completing the 2-year residency and 12-month work requirement can lead to rejection.
Bridging visa confusion: Some applicants misunderstand visa conditions if their provisional visa has expired.
Check Eligibility
FAQs
How long is the Subclass 887 visa valid for?
The Subclass 887 visa is a permanent residency visa, so it has no expiry. Once granted, you can live in Australia indefinitely, with a 5-year travel facility attached.
Do I need state/territory nomination to apply for the 887 visa?
No. Unlike your provisional visa (such as Subclass 491 or 489), the Subclass 887 is a direct application. However, you must have already held an eligible provisional visa and met the regional work and residency requirements.
3. What are the work and residency requirements?
You must have lived in a designated regional area for at least 2 years and worked full-time (at least 35 hours per week) for at least 1 year while holding your provisional skilled visa.
Can I include family members in my 887 application?
Yes. You can include eligible family members who were already included in your provisional skilled visa, or new members such as a spouse or children acquired since the original visa grant.
Does the Subclass 887 visa provide a pathway to citizenship?
Yes. Since this visa grants permanent residency, you can count your time spent in Australia on both your provisional visa and Subclass 887 towards the residency requirement for Australian citizenship.
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