Subclass 494 — Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa

The 494 is a 5-year provisional visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer in a regional area. After 3 years, you can apply for the Subclass 191 PR visa.

Key features

• 5-year provisional visa
• Live and work in regional Australia
• Pathway to PR via 191 after 3 years
• Include eligible family members
• Travel in and out of Australia during validity

All areas except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane (gold-tier cities). Includes Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart, Darwin, Newcastle, Gold Coast, etc.

To be eligible for the 494 visa:

• Have an occupation on the relevant skilled list (MLTSSL, ROL, CSOL)
• Have a positive skills assessment
• Have at least 2 years of relevant work experience
• Be under 45 years old
• Have Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band)
• Be nominated by an approved Australian employer in a regional area
• Meet health and character requirements

Employer requirements

• Standard Business Sponsor approval
• Position must be in a designated regional area
• Pay SAF levy
• Demonstrate genuine need

Stage 1: Skills Assessment

Apply for skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority.

Stage 2: Employer Nomination

Employer lodges nomination application for the regional position.

Stage 3: Visa Application

Lodge your visa application with all supporting documents.

Stage 4: Live and Work in Regional Area

Hold 494 for at least 3 years while working in regional area.

Stage 5: Apply for 191 PR

After 3 years (meeting income requirements), apply for the 191 PR visa.

After holding the 494 for 3 years, you can apply for the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence visa if you meet:

• Held 494 for at least 3 years
• Lived in regional area for 3 years
• Earned at least AUD 53,900 per year (taxable income)
• Met health and character requirements

Primary applicant: approximately AUD 4,015 (1 July 2026 update). Additional charges for adult and child dependants.

Employer pays: SAF levy + nomination fee.

Typical processing time is 6–12 months from application.

Can I live in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane on the 494?
No, you must live in designated regional areas.

What if I lose my job?
You can still hold the 494 visa but must maintain residence in a regional area.

Does 494 lead to PR?
Yes, via the 191 visa after 3 years.

Can I switch from 494 to 482?
Yes, but you would need to find a new employer.

• Free 30-minute eligibility assessment
• Regional employer coordination
• Skills assessment coordination
• Nomination application preparation
• Visa application lodgement
• 191 PR pathway planning