Australia - 119/857 - Regional Skilled Migration Scheme

119 / 857 - Regional Skilled Migration Scheme
The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) allows employers in Regional Australia, to nominate individuals from overseas or temporary residents currently in Australia to fill full-time, permanent vacancies for skilled positions if they are unable to fill them from the local labour market.
The RSMS offers permanent residency but you are required to start your employment within 6 months of the visa grant and stay with the nominating employer for 2 years after the visa is granted; the visa may be cancelled if you do not.

There is no points test for this visa.

Main Criteria

There are 3 stages to this visa;

1. Certification – employer stage 1
Before applying for Nomination approval by DIAC the employer must apply for the position to be Certified by an appropriate Regional Certifying Body. Once Certification of the position is received than the employer can apply for Nomination approval.

2. Nomination – employer stage 2
The employer must show that; There is a need for a paid employee in the nominated position and that the position will be full-time, be permanent and available for at least 2 years and not exclude the possibility of extending; The work requires a person with a skill level at least equivalent to Australian diploma level or a Trade Certificate with full apprenticeship; It is a lawful and actively operating business and is in a satisfactory financial position; Employment will be in accordance with relevant workplace legislation and awards
Once the nomination is approved the employee can apply for their visa.

3. Visa Application – employee stage 3
The main requirements for the visa applicant are;
  • - be under 45 years of age
  • - Have Functional level English language
  • have an offer from an Australian employer who is willing to sponsor you and you must be able to provide a signed letter of offer or contract.
  • be able to demonstrate that you have the appropriate skills, qualifications (at least diploma level) and/or experience to fill the position
  • be able meet any mandatory licensing, registration or professional membership requirements
  • must be able to meet health, public interest and character requirements (applicant and family unit)
In exceptional circumstances a waiver may be available for skill level, English language or age.

NOTE: if you are already in Australia please contact us, and we can advise you on the requirements.