Skilled Regional Visa

(Subclass 887)

A permanent visa for individuals who have previously lived and worked in designated regional areas of Australia while holding an eligible visa.

Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887)

The Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887) is a permanent residency visa designed for individuals who have previously lived and worked in designated regional areas of Australia on an eligible provisional visa. It allows you and your family to continue building your life in Australia — with unrestricted rights to live, study, and work.

Benefits of the Subclass 887 Visa

  • Permanent residency in Australia

  • Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia without restrictions

  • Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system

  • Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)

  • Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency

  • Unlimited travel to and from Australia for five years from the visa grant date

Who Can Apply for Subclass 887?

To be eligible for the Subclass 887 visa, applicants must have previously held one of the following visas:

  • Subclass 489 – Skilled Regional (Provisional)

  • Subclass 495, 496, 475, or 487 – Older provisional regional visas

  • Bridging visa A or B, granted after applying for a Subclass 887

Eligibility Requirements for Subclass 887

To apply for this visa, you must:

  • Have lived for at least 2 years in a designated regional area of Australia

  • Have worked full-time (35 hours/week) in a regional area for at least 1 year

  • Hold a valid eligible visa at the time of application

  • Meet health and character requirements

  • Comply with Australian laws and visa conditions while on your provisional visa

Note: There is no points test for Subclass 887. It’s a permanent pathway for those who have already met regional work and residence commitments.

Health and Character Requirements

All applicants, including dependent family members (whether migrating or not), must:

  • Undergo health examinations within the 12 months prior to applying

  • Provide police clearance certificates for each country where they’ve lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years (from age 16 onward)

English Language Requirements

Unlike initial skilled visas, the Subclass 887 does not require English language test scores at the time of application. However, functional English may be required for dependent family members unless they meet exemption criteria.

Including Family Members in Your Application

You can include the following dependents:

  • Your spouse or de facto partner

  • Your or your partner’s children or stepchildren

You must provide valid documentation proving your relationship with each dependent.

Do You Need to Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)?

No. The Subclass 887 does not require an EOI submission. Applicants can directly apply once they meet the residential and employment criteria on an eligible visa.

Clearing Debts Before Visa Approval

Any debts owed to the Australian Government must be cleared prior to the final decision on your visa application.

Why Choose Rozario Enterprises for Your Subclass 887 Application?

Transitioning from a provisional to permanent visa can be confusing. Our team of MARA-registered professionals will guide you through every step — from eligibility assessment to application submission — ensuring a smooth and successful visa process.


Disclaimer: This content is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date requirements and policy changes.