Due to a backlog of applications and changes to the Australian Government's new Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL) and Occupation Codes, RDA-Riverina will not be accepting 487/475 Visas until 1st August 2010. From 1st July 2010 only applicants that are applying for occupations listed on the new SOL (in the new ANZSCO occupation codes) will be processed. Check the link to the Riverina Skills Occupation List (previously known as 'Skills in demand list for the Riverina Region of NSW') below.

RDA-Riverina welcomes applications for sponsorship under the Skilled Regional (Provisional) Sponsored Visa Scheme. Skill shortages exist in many parts of Australia, in particular regional Australia. These visas were introduced to allow regional access to sponsor skilled applicants to come to the area to fill skill shortages, encouraging continued development in the region. The long term objective is to encourage people to stay in the region. These visas are valid for up to 3 years, however, after 2 years of living in regional Australia, including at least 12 months working in regional Australia; you are able to apply for a permanent visa.

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS VISA?

To determine if you are likely to be granted visa you should ensure that you:

1. Meet the basic requirements set by the Department of Immigration & Citizenship (DIAC) and obtain at least 100 points in the General Skilled Migration Points Test.
2. Be under 45 years of age when applying  (provide a certified copy of passport)
3. Provide a certified copy of IELTS
4. Provide a certified copy of the Skills Assessment from the authorised Australian Assessing Authority
5. Provide a resume including proof of 12 months full time paid (35 hours/week) relevant work experience in the nominated occupation.
6. Have an occupation which is in demand in the Riverina region ie. Listed on the Riverina Skilled Occupation List. Click here for Skills in Demand List for Riverina Region of NSW.

For further information please send an Expression of Interest by email to the Skilled Migration Officer to be advised whether your skills/application will be considered. All applications are taken into consideration based on our regions needs and the current labour market.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR VISA SPONSORSHIP?

Applications for sponsorship are assessed by forwarding the NSW Form R and supporting documents. Please note applications can take up to 4 weeks to process. NSW Form R can be downloaded from the following website:

www.business.nsw.gov.au/migration/pdfdocuments/Form_R.pdf

Go to the following website to find out more on how to seek permanent residency:-

www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/sir.htm

Contact the Skilled Migration Officer for all inquiries for the Riverina:

Ms Faye Anderson

Ph: 02 6931 0588
Fax: 02 6921 4679

Email: migration@rdariverina.org.au

SPONSORSHIP ADMINISTRATION FEE

RDA-Riverina charges a fee for assessing sponsorship applications. This amount is in addition to the Visa application fee payable to the Department of Immigration & Citizenship (DIAC). The fee for sponsorship is as follows and is payable by personal cheque, bank cheque (bank draft) , Australian money order. Applicants can also use direct debit by obtaining the RDA-Riverina bank details from the Riverina Skilled Migration Officer.
Effective from 1^st March 2010 the Sponsorship Administration fees are:

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Sponsored Visa:

- AUD$330 (incl. GST) for onshore applicants and

- AUD$330 for offshore applicants

Note: Applications received for offshore applicants are GST free.

 The Administration Fee is non refundable whether sponsorship is granted or not.

WHY CHOOSE THE RIVERINA?

The Riverina is a dynamic region of Australia that boasts a diverse range of industries. The nature and extent of these industries can be gleaned from this website, especially from main menu items, “Riverina Statistical Profile”.

Further information on the Riverina can be found on the following website:

www.riverinatourism.com.au