Overview
The Subclass 494 is a provisional employer-sponsored visa for skilled workers nominated to fill a position in designated regional Australia. It is valid for up to 5 years and provides a pathway to permanent residence through the Subclass 191 after meeting income and residence requirements. The visa has two streams: Employer Sponsored and Labour Agreement.
The 494 suits skilled workers with a regional employer sponsor. The 5-year provisional period gives you the time and stability to meet the income and residence requirements for the permanent Subclass 191 — the regional equivalent of the 186. We help match the right candidate to the right region and prepare both nomination and visa together so they hold up to scrutiny.
Who is eligible
- Be nominated by an approved sponsor for a position in a designated regional area
- Have a suitable skills assessment for your occupation
- Have at least 3 years of relevant skilled work experience (unless exempt)
- Be under 45 at time of application (with exemptions for certain occupations and income levels)
- Meet the salary threshold for your stream
- Meet competent English, health and character requirements
Costs
Fees change with annual indexation. See the official Visa Pricing Estimator for the current figure.
Processing times
See the official global visa processing times .
How to apply
- Employer becomes a sponsor. The business obtains Standard Business Sponsorship approval if it doesn't already hold one.
- Nomination in a regional area. The employer nominates the position and confirms it is located in a designated regional area.
- Visa application. You lodge the visa application with evidence of skills, experience and English.
- Work and live regionally. Live and work for the nominating employer in the regional area for at least 3 years to meet the income and residence requirements for the 191.
- Transition to permanent residence. Apply for the Subclass 191 once you meet the requirements — the permanent pathway from the 494.
Frequently asked questions
How is the 494 different from the 482 and 186?
All three are employer-sponsored, but the 494 is provisional (not permanent) and restricted to regional Australia. The 482 is temporary work anywhere in Australia; the 186 is permanent residence anywhere in Australia. The 494 leads to permanent residence through the regional Subclass 191.
How many years of work experience do I need?
At least 3 years of skilled work experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related one, unless an exemption applies.
Which areas count as regional?
Most of Australia outside Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane is classified as regional for the 494. The Department publishes the current list of designated regional postcodes.
Can I move to a non-regional area on a 494?
No. You must live and work in the designated regional area for the duration of the provisional visa to qualify for the permanent 191.