Regional Immigration

The Regional Certifying process for RSMS and 457 Visas that was provided by the Wheatbelt Development Commission has been placed on hold until further notice.

Regional Sponsored Migration Schemes permanent visas (RSMS Visa) and Temporary Business Long Stay visas (457 Visa) can assist employers in regional Australia, who are unable to fill skilled positions from the local labour market. Under these programs, employers can nominate and sponsor workers from overseas to fill full-time vacancies. The RSMS Visa is a permanent migration program, whereas the 457 Visa is a temporary program allowing for up to a 4 year stay. 457 Visas may act as a feeder mechanism to permanent migration under RSMS Visas or other applicable programs.

Due to the skilled labour shortage in regional Western Australia, many employers are now accessing either temporary or permanent visa’s, depending on business needs. Temporary residency is provided through the 457 Visa (http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/skilled-workers/sbs/how-to-apply.htm) and permanent residency is provided through the RSMS Visa (http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/skilled-workers/rsms/how-to-apply.htm).

Up to date and detailed information on these, as well as other visas can be obtained through the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website www.immi.gov.au.

The Wheatbelt Development Commission does not offer job searching or job placement services and is not able to assist directly with finding migrants a sponsor. However, the State Migration Centre website is a helpful resource in searching for jobs and sponsors http://www.migration.wa.gov.au. This web site provides more information about skilled migration including assistance in various visa options.

For Regional Certification for RSMS and 457 Visas, please contact:

Department of Immigration and Citizenship
Locked Bag 7
Northbridge  WA  6865
Phone : 131881
Citizenship Enquires: 131880
Email: ROO.WA@immi.gov.au
Website: www.immi.gov.au

State Migration Centre
Small Business Development Corporation
553 Hay Street (Corner Pier Street)
PERTH Western Australia 6000
Telephone: +61 8 9220 0222
Facsimile: +61 8 9221 1132
Email: information@migration.wa.gov.au
Website: www.migration.wa.gov.au