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Qualifying Visas for Subclass 887 Explainer

⚡ At a Glance: Qualifying Visas for Subclass 887

Eligible visas: Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional – Provisional), Subclass 489 (Skilled Regional – Provisional).

Residency requirement: 2 years of regional residence and full-time work in a regional area, 12 months of full-time work (at least 35 hours per week) in a regional area.

Processing time: Typically takes 12–18 months.

Final application: Submit evidence of your 2 years’ stay and 12 months’ work, Apply online through ImmiAccount with required documents

Outcome: Permanent residency, including access to Medicare and PR benefits.

💡 Introduction ​

The Subclass 887 Skilled Regional (Permanent) Visa is the pathway to permanent residency for individuals who have lived and worked in regional Australia on a provisional visa (such as Subclass 491 or 489).

The qualifying visas for Subclass 887 require meeting specific residency and work experience conditions before applying. This explainer covers the requirements, process, and essential documents for applying for Subclass 887.

📜 What Are Qualifying Visas for Subclass 887?

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa.
Subclass 489 – Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa.

These provisional visas allow you to live and work in regional areas for a set period. Once you meet the residency and work experience requirements, you can apply for the Subclass 887 Permanent Residency Visa.

🌟 Why It Matters

The Subclass 887 visa is one of the most important routes to permanent residency for skilled migrants who have lived and worked in regional areas. Meeting the 2-year residence and 12-month work requirements is crucial for a successful application.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Failing to prove that you have met the 2-year regional residence requirement.

Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents (e.g., not providing full-time work evidence).

Not keeping your documents up to date (e.g., payslips, employment contracts).

Applying before completing the 12-month full-time work requirement.

Not checking that your work history aligns with ANZSCO codes.

Always check that your regional work meets the full-time requirement (at least 35 hours per week) and provide clear documentation.

Required Documents

Proof of Regional Residence: Rental agreements, utility bills, or lease contracts from regional areas.

Proof of Full-Time Work: Payslips, employment contracts, tax records, and employer letters confirming employment.

Personal Identification Documents: Passport, birth certificate, driver’s license.

Evidence of Family Dependents: If applicable, birth certificates or family documents to include them in your application.

❓Qualifying Visa Frequently Ask Questions

👉 No, you must have held a provisional regional visa (Subclass 491/489) and have met the work and residence requirements in Australia.

👉 You must meet this requirement before applying. If you fail to meet it, you cannot apply for Subclass 887 until the work condition is met.

👉 Yes, family members who were included in your initial Subclass 491 or 489 visa can be added.

👉 Processing typically takes 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case.

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Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.