Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (Subclass 494) allows regional Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers where suitably qualified Australian workers are not available.

This visa can allow eligible applicants to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia and may provide a pathway to permanent residency through Subclass 191.

• Regional employer-sponsored visa
• Temporary visa for up to five years
• Designated regional work requirement
• Potential pathway to Subclass 191

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What is Subclass 494?

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (Subclass 494) allows regional Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers when they cannot find suitably qualified Australian workers for the position.

This visa allows eligible workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years.

Eligibility Requirements

• Approved regional employer sponsorship
• Nomination for an eligible occupation
• Relevant qualifications and skills
• Relevant work experience
• Skills assessment where required
• English language requirements
• Health and character requirements

Employer Requirements

• The employer must operate in a designated regional area
• The employer must nominate an eligible occupation
• The position must be genuine and full-time
• The employer must meet salary and employment obligations
• The employer must demonstrate a genuine need for the role

Employee Requirements

• Relevant skills and qualifications
• Relevant work experience
• Skills assessment where required
• English language ability
• Ability to work in the nominated occupation

Regional Work Requirements

Subclass 494 visa holders are generally required to live and work in a designated regional area. This requirement is an important part of the visa and should be carefully considered before applying.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Eligible Subclass 494 visa holders may later qualify for permanent residency through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (Subclass 191), subject to meeting the relevant requirements.

Related Employer Sponsored Visas

Visa Application Charges and Processing Times

Visa application charges and processing times change regularly. Applicants should review the latest official information before lodging an application.

Frequently Asked Questions