Regional Certification Agencies (RCBs)

Regional Certification Agencies, also known as Regional Certifying Bodies (RCBs), play a key role in Australia’s skilled migration process. These agencies assess and certify the genuine need for skilled workers in regional areas — an essential step for certain employer-sponsored and regional skilled migration visas.

Below are the key points about Regional Certification Agencies in Australia:

1. Role: RCBs assess and certify employer nominations for certain skilled migration visas, particularly those requiring employment in regional Australia. Their purpose is to confirm that nominated positions genuinely support regional economic growth and that there is a valid need for skilled workers in these areas.
2. Designated Areas: RCBs operate across designated regional areas of Australia — which include all regions except Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Perth. These areas cover regional cities, towns, and rural communities nationwide.
3. Certification Process: Employers sponsoring skilled workers for regional visas (such as the subclass 494 visa) often require certification from an RCB. The certification process typically involves providing business details, evidence of genuine labor needs, and compliance with Australian employment and migration laws.
4. RCB Listings: The Department of Home Affairs provides an official list of RCBs on its website. Employers can refer to this list to locate the appropriate RCB for their area and learn about specific certification procedures.
5. Types of Certifications: RCBs issue certifications for various visa programs, including the subclass 494 visa (Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional)) and the former subclass 187 Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visa.
6. Changes and Updates: Certification procedures and requirements may change in line with government policy updates. Employers and applicants should regularly check the Department of Home Affairs website for current information and any modifications to the RCB process.

Overall, Regional Certification Agencies play a crucial role in ensuring that skilled migration supports genuine labor market needs, contributes to regional economic growth, and aligns with Australia’s immigration and employment standards.