Subclass 187
Permanent visa for eligible skilled workers who are nominated by their employer to live and work in regional Australia.
The 187 RSMS Visa
The Subclass 187 (RSMS) visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by their employer to live and work in regional Australia. It is designed to reward the commitment of transitional workers who have already spent significant time supporting regional economies. Because this visa provides immediate permanent status, the application process requires a clear demonstration of your ongoing employment history and your intent to remain in the regional community.
At Immilex, we focus on the facts. We audit your transitional eligibility and handle the technical details of the application so that you have a clear roadmap from the very beginning.
Key Factors for Success:
- Regional Exclusivity: Both the employer's business and the worker's role must be located in a designated regional area of Australia.
- Transitional Status: This pathway is specifically for holders of a Subclass 482 (TSS) or Subclass 457 visa who were already on a pathway to regional residency.
- 2-Year Service Milestone: You must generally have worked for your nominating employer for at least 2 years while holding your qualifying temporary visa.
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
What it is for: For transitional 457 and 482 visa holders who have been nominated by their regional employer to live and work in Australia permanently.
What it allows: Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely; sponsor eligible family members; and apply for Australian Citizenship.
Key Requirements:
- Be a transitional Subclass 457 or 482 (TSS) worker.
- Usually have worked for your nominating employer in regional Australia for at least 2 years full-time while holding the qualifying visa.
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of application (unless a specific exemption applies).
- Have an approved nomination from your employer within 6 months before you apply for the visa.
- Demonstrate Competent English (IELTS 6 equivalent) and meet health and character standards.
Qualifying Visa: Must hold a Subclass 457, Subclass 482, or a related Bridging Visa (A, B, or C).
When to Start Work: If the visa is granted while you are offshore, you must start work for the nominating employer within 6 months of entering Australia.
Income Threshold: Must be paid at least the TSMIT, currently $76,515 (increasing to $79,499 on 1 July 2026).
Nomination & Sponsorship: Requires a nomination from an approved Australian business that actively and lawfully operates in regional Australia.
Length of Stay: Permanent.
Maintaining compliance
While the 187 is a permanent visa, it is granted based on your commitment to regional employment.
- The 2-Year Commitment: You are expected to remain with your nominating employer in the regional area for at least two years after the visa is granted.
- Notification of Changes: Both you and your employer must notify the Department if the employment relationship ends earlier than planned.
- Visa Cancellation Powers: The Department has the power (under section 137Q) to cancel an RSMS visa if the holder does not begin employment or leaves the employer within the first two years.
The 187 Application Process
Nomination
The regional employer lodges a nomination application, proving the business’s financial health and the genuine need for the permanent role.
Visa Application
The worker lodges their visa application within 6 months of the nomination being approved, providing proof of residency history, age, and skills.
For 187 Visa Applicants
The 187 visa is a legacy pathway, meaning its rules are highly specific to those who held certain visas before 2019. Understanding your status as a transitional worker is the most important part of your application. At Immilex, we provide detailed assessment to ensure your previous work history on your 482 or 457 visa perfectly aligns with the TRT requirements.
We also assist in preparing your citizenship roadmap. Once your 187 visa is granted, we can help you calculate your residency dates to ensure you meet the requirements for Australian Citizenship at the earliest possible opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most applicants do not need a new skills assessment for the TRT stream because they have already been working in the role for two years. However, the Department may request one in specific circumstances.
Generally, this includes all areas of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
No. The 187 Direct Entry stream is closed. New applicants who are not already on a transitional pathway must look at the Subclass 494 or Subclass 186 visas instead.
Secure Your Strategic Advantage
Whether you are scaling a business or building a life in Australia, a permanent visa requires a flawless strategy. Contact Immilex for a consultation and a 187 roadmap you can rely on.