The Australian Government is increasing the total number of regional places from 23,000 to 25,000 in 2019 – 2020. So, there are now thousands of Regional Migration visas available due to the unprecedented growth (124%) in the number of regional visas granted.
As we mentioned in a previous blog post, Perth and the Gold Coast are now classified as regional zones, not major cities. This helps to ensure they are attractive locations for skilled migrants and international students.
Regional Incentives Include:
- Access to the dedicated 25,000 regional places.
- Priority processing on regional visas.
- Access to the Regional Occupations List – more jobs compared to non-regional lists.
- International students studying at regional universities will be eligible to access an additional year in Australia on a post-study work visa.
- Another exciting update is that international university graduates living in these locations will be eligible to apply for more time in Australia on a post-study work visa.
Major cities: Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Cities and major regional centres that receive regional incentives: Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast Canberra Newcastle/Lake Macquarie, Wollongong/Illawarra, Geelong and Hobart.
Regional centres and other regional areas: All other locations
- Access to the dedicated 25,000 regional places.
- Priority processing on regional visas.
- Access to the Regional Occupations List – more jobs compared to non-regional lists.
- International students studying at regional universities will be eligible to access an additional 2 years in Australia on a post-study work visa.
- Priority in negotiating region-specific Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs).
WHAT TO DO NEXT AND HOW TO APPLY
If you are searching for help with Regional Migration visas (subclass 491 or subclass 494) contact us today.
- Direct call on (+61) 2 9299 0255
- Send us an email richard@rslawyers.com.au
We will assess your situation on an individual basis and provide you with the best advice. Learn more about Regional Migration here.