It is a Three year provisional Visa meant for those skilled workers who fail to qualify for a Skilled – Independent visa. It is mandatory to fulfill either of the following requirements:

• Nominated by State government agency or a Territory government agency
• Have sponsorship by a relative living in a designated area of Australia, provided the relative fulfills the eligibility criteria.

The visa is meant for:

• Applicants from outside Australia
• The applicant is from New Zealand and holds a Special Category visa (subclass 444)

Eligibility criteria:

• Be under the age of 45
• Sponsored by a relative living in Australia
• Have proficiency in the English language.
• Qualify for the conditions required for an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). Every occupation listed in the list is allocated a points value.

Eligible Sponsor: It is mandatory that the eligible sponsor must sign a Sponsorship Undertaking in order to prove the following facets:

• Provide apt financial assistance (including accommodation) during the first two year stay of the main applicant
• Provide support, in case the applicant plans to learn English language classes
• Give all the necessary information on Australian jobs, if required

Freedom under this visa:

• The applicant is allowed to remain in Australia for three years
• It is mandatory that the applicant should live and work in the Specified Regional Area
• The visa is a gateway to get a PR in Australia.

Hire an Immigration expert to know more.