Australia offers a variety of visas for skilled workers, students, and families. Among them, the 887 visa Australia is a pathway to permanent residency for those who have previously held a provisional visa and have met specific requirements. This visa allows for permanent residence, offering benefits such as the ability to work and study anywhere in Australia, access to Medicare, and the option to apply for Australian citizenship. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the 887 visa, including its requirements, the application process, and essential tips to ensure a successful application.
What is the 887 Visa?
The 887 visa, also known as the Skilled Regional (Permanent) visa, is designed for individuals who have lived and worked in regional Australia on a qualifying provisional visa. It grants permanent residency to holders of specific provisional visas, allowing them to settle permanently in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements for the 887 Visa
To be eligible for the 887 visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Qualifying Visa: You must hold an eligible visa such as the 489, 495, 496, 475, or 487 visa, or the Bridging visa A or B after applying for a subclass 489, 495, or 487 visa.
- Residence Requirement: You must have lived in a designated regional area of Australia for at least two years while holding a qualifying visa.
- Work Requirement: You must have worked full-time (at least 35 hours per week) in a designated regional area for at least one year while holding a qualifying visa.
- Health and Character Requirements: You and any family members included in your application must meet health and character requirements.
- No Outstanding Debts: You must have no outstanding debts to the Australian government or have made arrangements to repay any debts.
Document Checklist for the 887 Visa
When applying for the 887 visa, you will need to provide various documents to support your application. Here is a comprehensive checklist:
- Identity Documents:
- Passport biodata page.
- Birth certificate.
- Residence Proof:
- Rental agreements or property ownership documents.
- Utility bills (electricity, water, gas).
- Work Proof:
- Employment contracts.
- Payslips.
- Tax returns or payment summaries.
- Employer reference letters.
- Health and Character Documents:
- Health examination results.
- Police clearance certificates from each country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
- Family Documents (if applicable):
- Marriage certificate.
- Birth certificates of dependent children.
- Evidence of legal custody (if applicable).
- Additional Documents:
- Completed Form 80 (Personal particulars for assessment including character assessment).
- Any other documents that support your claims in the application.
Australian Visa Fee for the 887 Visa
The application fee for the 887 visa varies depending on the number of applicants included in your application. As of 2024, the fee structure is as follows:
- Primary Applicant: AUD 4,240
- Each Additional Adult Applicant: AUD 2,120
- Each Additional Child Applicant: AUD 1,060
It is important to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date fees as they are subject to change.
887 Visa Processing Time
The processing time for the 887 visa can vary based on several factors, including the completeness of your application and the time taken to provide additional information if requested by the Department of Home Affairs. As of 2024, the processing times are generally as follows:
- 75% of Applications: Processed within 12 months.
- 90% of Applications: Processed within 15 months.
To ensure a smooth and timely process, it is crucial to submit a complete and accurate application with all the required documents.
Transitioning from the 489 to the 887 Visa
If you hold a 489 visa and wish to apply for the 887 visa, you must meet specific requirements, which include:
- Holding a 489 Visa: You must currently hold a subclass 489 visa or have held it recently.
- Living in a Designated Area: You must have lived in a designated regional area for at least two years.
- Work Experience: You must have worked full-time (minimum 35 hours per week) in a designated regional area for at least one year.
- Health and Character: You must meet health and character requirements.
- No Debts: You should not have any outstanding debts to the Australian government.
By fulfilling these requirements, you can successfully transition from the 489 to the 887 visa and gain permanent residency in Australia.
Benefits of the 887 Visa
Obtaining an 887 visa offers numerous benefits, including:
- Permanent Residency: Gain the right to live in Australia permanently.
- Work and Study: Enjoy the freedom to work and study anywhere in Australia.
- Healthcare: Access Medicare, Australia’s healthcare scheme.
- Social Security: Become eligible for certain social security payments after waiting periods.
- Sponsorship: Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence.
- Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship once eligible.
Tips for a Successful 887 Visa Application
- Prepare Early: Start gathering your documents and evidence well before you apply.
- Accuracy: Ensure all information provided in your application is accurate and truthful.
- Complete Documentation: Submit all required documents as per the checklist to avoid delays.
- Health and Character: Complete health examinations and obtain police clearances early.
- Professional Help: Consider consulting with a migration agent to ensure your application is complete and meets all requirements.
Conclusion
The 887 visa is an excellent pathway to permanent residency in Australia for those who have held a qualifying provisional visa and have met the residency and work requirements. By following the guidelines and preparing a thorough application, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome. For professional assistance with your visa application, consider consulting the Best Migration Agent Perth to guide you through the process and ensure a smooth transition to permanent residency.
The journey to permanent residency can be complex and requires careful planning and adherence to requirements. However, with determination and the right guidance, you can achieve your goal of becoming a permanent resident in Australia and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.
