Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa
Subclass 494
What is the Subclass 494 Visa?
Important Facts
Right to Work, Study, and Live
Visa holders can work, study, and live in designated regional areas of Australia.
Employer Commitment
Visa holders must work for their sponsoring employer in the nominated occupation for a minimum specified duration.
Family Inclusion
Eligible family members can be included in the visa application.
Travel Rights
Visa holders can travel in and out of Australia while their visa is valid.
Streams Under the Subclass 494 Visa
The Subclass 494 Visa offers two main streams:
Employer Sponsored Stream
- Purpose: For skilled workers sponsored by a regional employer in Australia.
- Eligibility: Applicants must meet skills, English proficiency, and experience requirements specific to their nominated occupation.
- Requirements: A skills assessment and a job offer from an approved regional employer.
Labour Agreement Stream
- Purpose: For workers sponsored by a regional employer under a Labour Agreement approved by the Australian government.
- Eligibility: Tailored to occupations and industries that face specific skill shortages beyond the general occupation lists.
- Requirements: Based on the conditions outlined in the specific Labour Agreement.
Eligibility Requirements for the Subclass 494 Visa
To qualify for the Subclass 494 Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age
Under 45 years unlessexemptions apply.
Skills and Experience
Applicants must possess the required skills and work experience for their nominated occupation.
Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment relevant to the nominated occupation is required unless exemptions apply.
English Proficiency
Applicants must meet minimum English language standards.
Health and Character
All applicants must undergo health checks and provide police clearances.
Sponsorship and Nomination by Regional Employers
Regional employers play a crucial role in the 494 Visa process. Requirements include:
Approved Sponsorship
Employers must be approved by the Department of Home Affairs to sponsor applicants.
Regional Location
The job must be in a designated regional area in Australia, and employers must demonstrate a genuine need for the position.
Commitment to Support
Employers must support the visa holder, meeting ongoing obligations related to employment and reporting.
Visa Application Process for 494 Visa
The application process for the 494 Visa involves the following steps:
1
Sponsorship Approval
The regional employer applies to become an approved sponsor if they are not already approved.
2
Nomination
The employer nominates the applicant for a specific position in a designated regional area.
3
Visa Application
The nominated employee submits their visa application, including required documentation such as skills assessment, English proficiency, and health/character checks.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The Subclass 494 Visa provides a pathway to permanent residency after three years of living and working in a designated regional area. Visa holders may apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191) if they meet the following requirements:
- Regional Employment: Complete at least three years of employment with the sponsoring regional employer.
- Compliance with Visa Conditions: Comply with the conditions of the 494 Visa during the qualifying period.
This pathway allows skilled workers to transition to permanent residency, making it a suitable choice for those committed to regional Australia.
Application Fees
The application fees for the Subclass 494 Visa are as follows:
Primary Applicant
Additional Applicant (18 and over)
Additional Applicant (Under 18)
Additional Cost
How Can We Help?
At Kris Ahn Lawyers, we provide comprehensive support for the Subclass 494 Visa application process, helping both employers and applicants meet all requirements smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the 494 Visa?
The 494 Visa is valid for up to 5 years, allowing you to live, work, and study in regional Australia.
Can I apply for permanent residency after the 494 Visa?
Yes, after three years of regional employment, you may be eligible for the Subclass 191 Visa, which grants permanent residency.
What if I want to change employers on a 494 Visa?
Changing employers may be possible, but the new employer must also be approved as a sponsor, and the position must be in a designated regional area.
Can I include family members in my 494 Visa application?
Yes, you can include eligible family members, such as your spouse and dependent children.
Do I need a skills assessment for the 494 Visa?
Yes, a positive skills assessment is required for most occupations to verify your qualifications and experience unless exemptions apply.
