Regional Skilled Migration Scheme Australia

Home >

Services >

Work Visas >

Regional Skilled Migration

Regional Skilled Migration

🌄 Regional Skilled Migration Scheme – Build a Future in Regional Australia

Australia’s Regional Skilled Migration Scheme offers skilled workers the chance to live and work in regional areas with long-term settlement opportunities. Whether you’re seeking a better quality of life, career advancement, or permanent residency, this program connects skilled migrants to genuine employment across Australia’s regions.

As part of the broader migration strategy, the Australia Regional Skilled Migration Scheme was designed to ease skill shortages and encourage growth in areas beyond major metropolitan centres. Importantly, it supports not just economic development but also community sustainability in remote and rural Australia.

What Is the Regional Skilled Migration Scheme?

The Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (RSMS) is part of Australia’s employer-sponsored visa program, most recently operating under the Subclass 187 visa before its closure to new applications in 2019. Since then, regional migration has been channelled through newer visa subclasses:

  • Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa
  • Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
  • Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa

These visa options ensure skilled workers can secure sponsorship or nomination to work in designated regional areas, leading eventually to permanent residency.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for regional skilled migration, you generally need to:

  • Have an occupation listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List
  • Meet skills assessment, work experience, and English language requirements
  • Be sponsored by a regional employer or nominated by a state or territory
  • Commit to living and working in a designated regional area

Depending on the visa subclass, additional requirements may apply, including minimum salary thresholds, employment contracts, and age restrictions.

Benefits of Regional Migration Pathways

Choosing a regional skilled visa provides several distinct advantages:

  • Priority processing and additional points for skilled migration
  • Access to expanded occupation lists specific to regional Australia
  • Lower competition for nomination and invitations
  • Clear PR pathways, particularly via the Subclass 191 visa
  • Longer visa validity periods for temporary regional visas

Furthermore, the Australian Government continues to invest in regional infrastructure, education, and healthcare – making life outside the big cities increasingly appealing.

How Jade Immigration Lawyers Can Help

Navigating Australia’s regional migration system requires expert insight. At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we:

  • Evaluate your eligibility for 491, 494, or 191 visas
  • Advise on the most strategic regional pathway based on your goals
  • Assist with skills assessments, employer sponsorship, and state nomination
  • Prepare complete visa applications with strong supporting documents
  • Offer tailored guidance from consultation through to visa grant

Ready to take the next step?

Speak with Jade Immigration Lawyers today – we’re here to help you.

📞 Call us: 0485 907 989
đź“§ Email: jade@jadeimmigrationlawyers.com.au
📝 Submit an online enquiry or
đź“… Book a consultation now to get personalised immigration advice from our experienced team. We assist clients across Australia and internationally.

Related Pages

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Australian Work Visa services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us. 

What is the Regional Skilled Migration Scheme?

It is a government program designed to bring skilled workers to regional areas of Australia through specific visa subclasses like 491, 494, and 191.

Is the Subclass 187 visa still available?

No, the 187 visa is closed to new applicants. Current regional migration pathways are through the 491 and 494 visas.

What is a regional area for visa purposes in Australia?

Regional areas include all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Locations like Adelaide, Hobart, and Newcastle are eligible.

Can I bring my family on a regional work visa?

Yes. Most regional visas allow you to include family members in your application and even sponsor them later for PR.

Do regional work visas lead to permanent residency?
  1. Absolutely. Both the 491 and 494 visas can lead to the 191 permanent visa, provided certain conditions are met.
Is it easier to get a regional visa than a metro visa?

Generally, yes. Regional visas offer more occupations and often have lower competition and faster processing times.

Can I move to a city after getting a regional visa?

No. You must commit to living and working in a regional area for the required period, typically 3 years.

Do I need a job offer to apply?

Some visas like the 494 require employer sponsorship. Others like the 491 allow state or territory nomination.