This visa allows skilled workers who are unable to meet the Australia immigration points criteria for a permanent visa the chance apply for a temporary (3 year) visa and to eventually apply for residence in Australia provided they are prepared to live for two years, and work at least 12 months, in a regional or low population growth metropolitan area in Australia.

This visa requires sponsorship by a participating State or Territory government or delegated Regional Certifying Body (NSW only). All states and territories, with the exception of the ACT, are participating.

State/Territory sponsorship

The following State and Territory governments are participating in the SIR visa.

• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia

The State and Territory governments will be able to provide you with information relating to employment, housing and schools in the area you are thinking about settling in but it is still up to you to find yourself employment.

Getting sponsorship does not automatically entitle you to a visa, you must include evidence of your sponsorship with your visa application which will be assessed by DIAC against the requirements specific to this visa.

Who is this visa for?
This visa is for applicants who meet the key eligibility criteria for a General Skilled Migration visa but who are unable to meet the pass mark on the points test for a permanent Skilled - Independent visa.
Holders of a Working Holiday Maker visa who have been in Australia on that visa for at least six months can also apply for this visa.

To apply for this visa you must meet the following criteria:

1. You must have vocational English
2. Your nominated occupation must be on the SOL
3. Your nominated occupation must be formally assessed by the relevant assessing agency or authority
4. You must be under age 45
5. You must gain a pass mark of at least 100 on the points test *Note* that you will be awarded 10 points if a state agrees to sponsor you.
6. If you nominate a 60 point occupation, you must meet the recent work experience criteria.
7. You must complete and pass medical and police clearances.

What does this visa let me do?

• allows you to remain in Australia for up to three years and requires you to live and work in a regional or low-population growth area when in Australia
• allows accompanying family members to work and study, but only in a regional or low-population growth areas of Australia
• provides applicants a pathway to permanent residence.