Moving to Australia as a Regional Residency Nominee: Eligibility for PR Through Work Experience
Is It Possible to Get Australian PR if Living in Regional Areas?
The pathway to obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Australia can be complex, particularly for those living in regional areas. A common pathway involves a combination of education, work experience, and state nomination. In this article, we explore the feasibility of obtaining PR if you have lived and worked in regional Australia for 4-5 years as part of a two-year master's program.
Understanding the Australian Visa System
Australia's visa system is designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the country's economy. The main visa categories include the Subclass 189 and 190 visas, which are critical for obtaining permanent residency. Here’s a brief breakdown of these visas:
Subclass 189 Visa:_GRANTED to highly skilled independent visa applicants who do not require state or territory nomination. Subclass 190 Visa: Provided to state or territory nominated visa applicants, who must offer proof of an occupation that is in high demand in their state or territory.How Does Living in a Regional Area Impact PR Eligibility?
Living and working in a regional area can indeed present challenges but is not necessarily a barrier to obtaining PR, especially if you can secure state or territory nomination. Here are the key steps and considerations:
1. Choosing the Right Occupation
The first step is selecting a profession that is listed as needed by the Australian government. The Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) categorizes roles, which are then matched with the relative demand in various regions. You can find the list of occupations eligible for nomination on the SkillsSelect website or consult with your state or territory’s Department of Skills and Training.
2. State Nomination Requirement
Each state and territory in Australia offers their own regional visa programs. Many require that the visa applicant work or have living in a regional area (outside the major cities) for at least two years before applying for nomination. Your occupation must be matched with the occupations in the state Nomination Scheme.
3. Accumulating the Required Points
Both Subclass 189 and 190 visa applications are point-based. The total score is calculated based on various factors, including:
Educational qualifications Age Work experience The occupation’s relevance to the state or territory skills shortage list Community connections English language proficiencyLiving and working in a regional area for 4-5 years as part of your master’s program and relevant work experience can build a strong case, especially if your occupation is in high demand in your state or territory.
How to Approach the Application Process
Once you have identified your nominated state or territory and have your occupation matched, you can begin the application process. Here are a few key steps:
1. Apply for a Nomination
Check the specific requirements for your state or territory. For instance, Tasmania requires a minimum of two years of continuous residency in a rural or regional area, while other states might have different criteria. Contact your state or territory’s Department of Skills and Training to apply for the nomination.
2. Begin the Skilled Nominations Process
Collect all necessary documents, including your resume, educational qualifications, work history, and a statement explaining your connection to the regional area. These documents should be professionally compiled to ensure accuracy and completeness.
3. Submit a Subclass 190 Visa Application
Once you successfully get a nomination, you can submit a Subclass 190 visa application. Ensure that your application aligns with the eligibility criteria and that your documents are up-to-date.
4. Wait and Attend Interviews (If Required)
Australia may conduct interview process for some applicants to verify their application and eligibility. Make sure to prepare adequately for this process.
Conclusion
While living and working in a regional area for 4-5 years as part of a master’s program and work experience can be a significant factor in PR eligibility, the path to obtaining a Permanent Residency Visa in Australia is multifaceted. Make sure to thoroughly research the requirements of your nominated state or territory and ensure that your occupation aligns with the state’s skills shortage list.
With careful planning, the necessary documentation, and understanding of the visa requirements, obtaining PR through work experience in a regional area is definitely achievable. If you’re successful, you’ll be part of a growing, connected community in Australia, and you’ll be contributing to the regional economy's prosperity.