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Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887) and the 191 PR Pathway
Quick answer: The Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) was a PR visa for people who lived and worked in regional Australia on older provisional visas (such as 489). For holders of the newer 491 and 494 visas, the pathway to PR is the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa subclass 191, after three years of living and earning the required income in a designated regional area.
The Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887) is an Australian permanent residence visa for people who have lived and worked in a specified regional area of Australia. It is designed to encourage population growth and skilled worker retention in regional and low-population parts of Australia.
To be eligible for the subclass 887 visa, applicants must have lived in a specified regional area of Australia for at least two years and worked in the same area for at least one year (full-time equivalent) in a skilled occupation. The visa is open to holders of certain temporary visas, including the subclass 487, 495, 496, and other former regional sponsored visa subclasses.
The subclass 887 visa grants permanent residence in Australia, providing all associated rights including the ability to live and work anywhere in Australia, access to Medicare, and the option to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting the residency requirements. It also allows visa holders to sponsor eligible relatives for certain visas.
This visa is an important pathway for skilled workers who have been contributing to regional Australian communities and wish to make a permanent home in the country. Applicants should ensure they maintain accurate records of their regional residence and employment to support their application.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still apply for subclass 887?
Only if you hold an eligible older provisional visa such as 489 or 495–496; most new applicants use subclass 191.
What are the requirements for subclass 191?
Hold a 491 or 494 visa for at least three years and meet the taxable income requirement for three years while living in a designated regional area.
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