Subclass 494 Visa (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa)

The Subclass 494 Visa is a 5-year provisional visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia while being sponsored by an approved employer. This visa is a direct pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa after meeting residency and income requirements.

Key Benefits of the Subclass 494 Visa

✅ Live and work in designated regional areas of Australia

✅ Bring eligible family members (partner and dependent children)

✅ Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)

✅ Pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 191) after 3 years

✅ Age exemptions apply for certain applicants

Eligibility Requirements

For Employees (Nominees)

✔ Age: Under 45 years (unless exempt)

✔ Occupation: Must be on the relevant skills occupation list

✔ Skills Assessment: Required for the nominated occupation

✔ Work Experience: At least 3 years of relevant experience

✔ English Proficiency: Competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)

✔ Employer Sponsorship: Must have an approved regional employer

For Employers (Sponsors)

✔ Must operate in a designated regional area

✔ Be an approved Standard Business Sponsor (SBS)

✔ Prove genuine need for the position

✔ Pay at least the Annual Market Salary Rate and the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (AUD 79,423 for nominations lodged from 1 July 2026)

✔ Comply with Australian workplace laws

494 Visa Streams

1. Employer-Sponsored Stream

For skilled workers nominated by an approved employer in regional Australia

2. Labour Agreement Stream

For workers under a formal labour agreement

Pathway to Permanent Residency (Subclass 191 Visa)

After holding the 494 visa for 3 years, you may be eligible for permanent residency if you:

✔ Have lived and worked in a regional area for at least 3 years

✔ Meet the minimum taxable income requirement set by legislative instrument, evidenced by ATO notices of assessment

✔ Comply with all visa conditions

How Immigrad Can Help

✅Employer Sponsorship Guidance – Help businesses meet sponsorship requirements

✅ Skills Assessment Support – Ensure your qualifications meet Australian standards

✅ Visa Application Management – Prepare and lodge a strong application

✅ Regional Job Matching – Connect skilled workers with regional employers

✅ PR Pathway Planning – Guide you toward permanent residency

Why Choose the Subclass 494 Visa?

🔹A clear, legislated route to permanent residence

🔹 Priority access to regional job opportunities

🔹 Clear route to permanent residency

Start Your Australian Regional Journey Today!