Since 2011, the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) has been used as a visa option to sponsor skilled overseas employees for work in Perth. However, as you may have heard in the media, the Federal Government is now deciding whether to exclude Perth from using the Scheme.
If the change goes ahead, skilled overseas workers may have one less visa option to be sponsored for work in Perth. However, other work visa options will still be available, such as subclass 457 visas, 186 visas and others.
Update 28 March 2017:
Last week, the State Government had suspended applications for subclass 187 nominations while the Scheme was under review, however it is now beginning to process new 187 visa applications for regional areas. It has also been agreed that any 187 visa applications lodged prior to the suspension would still be subject to previous RSMS requirements.
The Migration Institute of WA is currently seeking further clarification on the RSMS requirements. We will be watching closely to see how the decision unfolds and keep you updated.
If you have any queries in the meantime, or if you would like to understand the various visa options for your business needs, please contact us on +61 8 9221 3388 (or National Free Call 1800 449 858) or [email protected]
Sources:
ABC News
Business News
