Subclass 494
Skilled Employer Regional Sponsored Visa - Employer Sponsored Work in Regional Australia
The Skilled Employer Regional Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494) is a provisional visa that allows skilled workers to work and live in regional Australia for up to 5 years. Sponsored by an approved regional employer, this visa provides a direct pathway to permanent residency through the Skilled Regional Permanent Residency Visa (Subclass 191).
What is the Skilled Employer Regional Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494)?
✅ A temporary regional work visa requiring employer sponsorship.
✅ Valid for up to 5 years.
✅ PR pathway available via the Subclass 191 visa.
✅ Workers must live and work in regional Australia.
✅ Requires skills assessment and employer nomination.
Skilled Employer Regional Sponsored Visa Streams
1. Employer-Sponsored Stream
- Applicants must have a job offer from an approved regional employer.
- Requires at least 3 years of relevant work experience.
- Must meet skills assessment and English proficiency requirements.
2. Labour Agreement Stream
- For applicants nominated by employers under a labour agreement.
- Designed for industries with critical labour shortages.
- Offers permanent residency pathway in certain agreements.
3. Subsequent Entrant Stream
- For family members of existing Subclass 494 visa holders.
- Allows dependents to live and work in regional Australia.
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 494
To qualify you must:
✅ Have a valid job offer from a regional employer.
✅ Have at least 3 years of full-time work experience in the nominated occupation.
✅ Hold a positive skills assessment from a recognized assessing authority.
✅ Meet Competent English requirements (IELTS 6.0+ or equivalent).
✅ Be under 45 years old at the time of application.
✅ Commit to living and working in regional Australia for at least 3 years.
Processing Time & Costs
| Visa Type | Processing Time | Visa Fee |
| Employer-Sponsored Stream | 6-12 months | From AUD $4,045 |
| Labour Agreement Stream | 6-12 months | From AUD $4,045 |
| Subsequent Entrant Stream | Varies | From AUD $4,045 |
Note: Processing times may vary based on individual circumstances.
How to Apply for the Skilled Employer Regional Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494)?
1. Confirm Employer Sponsorship – Find an approved regional employer willing to sponsor you.
2. Obtain a Skills Assessment – Your qualifications and work experience must be assessed.
3. Lodge Nomination Application – Your employer submits a nomination to the Department of Home Affairs.
4. Submit Visa Application – Lodge your application online with supporting documents.
5. Wait for Processing – Processing times range from 6-12 months.
6. Receive Visa Grant – Once approved, you can live and work in regional Australia.
FAQs About Skilled Employer Regional Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494)
Can I apply for PR after holding a Subclass 494 visa?
Yes! You can apply for Subclass 191 (Skilled Regional PR Visa) after living and working in regional Australia for at least 3 years.
Can I change employers on a Subclass 494 visa?
You must stay with your sponsoring employer for at least 3 years. Changing employers requires a new nomination.
What happens if I stop working for my sponsoring employer?
If you lose your job, you must find a new regional employer within 90 days, or your visa may be canceled.
Why Choose VisaAdvisor?
✅ Expert Regional Visa Consultants – High success rates for employer-sponsored visas.
✅ End-to-End Application Support – Ensuring compliance with all visa requirements.
✅ Guidance on PR Pathways – Helping applicants transition to Subclass 191.
✅ Employer Connection Assistance – Helping skilled workers find sponsorship opportunities.