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What is the Subclass 494 Visa?
The Subclass 494 visa is a provisional employer-sponsored visa designed to fill skill shortages in Australia\’s regional areas. Introduced in 2019 to replace older regional schemes, this visa allows nominated skilled workers to live, work and study in designated regional locations for up to 5 years. It also provides a clear route to permanent residency via the Subclass 191 visa after fulfilling residency and income conditions.
Why the 494 Visa is Popular in 2025
- High regional demand for skilled trades, health professionals, teachers, IT specialists and agricultural technicians.
- Fast-track employer sponsorship and lower competition than metropolitan job markets.
- Direct PR opportunity after working regionally for the required period.
Subclass 494 Streams
1. Employer Sponsored Stream
Applicants are nominated by an approved regional employer who must demonstrate they cannot fill the position locally. The nominated occupation should appear on the Regional Occupation List (ROL), and the job offer must be full-time for at least 5 years.
2. Labour Agreement Stream
This stream covers employers who sponsor workers under a specific labour agreement negotiated with the Australian government. Eligibility and conditions depend on the agreement\’s terms.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicant Requirements
- Under 45 years of age (exceptions may apply).
- Occupation listed on the Regional Occupation List (ROL).
- Positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority (e.g. Engineers Australia, AHPRA).
- Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience.
- English language competence (IELTS ~6.0 each band or equivalent).
- Health and character checks clearances.
Employer Requirements
- Approved standard business sponsor license.
- Business located in a designated regional area.
- Genuine, full-time position, paid at market salary rates.
- Evidence that no suitable Australian worker is available for the role.
What Counts as a Regional Area?
Designated regional areas include most of Australia outside the largest metropolitan centers. In practice, this often covers several major regional cities and many rural towns. Regional classification is critical — ensure your employer\’s location qualifies before applying.
High-Demand Occupations (2025)
Below are common skilled occupations that regularly receive employer sponsorship under the 494 visa:
| Occupation | Avg Annual Salary (AUD) | Visa Sponsorship |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $80,000 – $110,000 | Yes |
| Civil / Structural Engineer | $90,000 – $130,000 | Yes |
| ICT Business Analyst | $100,000 – $140,000 | Yes |
| Chef / Cook | $70,000 – $90,000 | Yes |
| Electrician | $75,000 – $100,000 | Yes |
| Secondary School Teacher | $85,000 – $120,000 | Yes |
| Agricultural Technician | $65,000 – $90,000 | Yes |
| Construction Project Manager | $95,000 – $140,000 | Yes |
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 — Find a Sponsoring Employer
Search regional job boards, recruitment agencies, and employer career pages. Apply only to businesses that list sponsorship or relocation assistance.
Step 2 — Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority for your occupation (this step varies by profession and authority).
Step 3 — Employer Lodges Nomination
Your employer submits a nomination to the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf — this must be approved before you apply for the visa.
Step 4 — Apply for the Visa
Submit your visa application online via ImmiAccount once the nomination is approved. Include health checks, police certificates, and all required documentation.
Step 5 — Visa Decision
Wait for the decision. Processing time depends on occupation, completeness of documents, and the stream used (Employer Sponsored vs Labour Agreement).
Processing Times & Costs (Estimate)
| Category | Time | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Sponsored Stream | 6–9 months | From $4,640 |
| Labour Agreement Stream | 8–12 months | From $4,640 |
| Skills Assessment | 2–3 months | Varies by authority |
Family Members & Dependents
You can include your partner and dependent children in the 494 application. Dependents must meet health and character requirements and will receive the same rights to work and study while in Australia.
Transition to Permanent Residency — Subclass 191
After 3 years of lawful residence and work in a designated regional area on the 494 visa, you may be eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa. Key PR requirements generally include:
- Holding the Subclass 494 visa for 3 years
- Meeting the minimum taxable income threshold for the required period (example: AUD $53,900 — check current figure before applying)
- Living, working and studying in a designated regional area
Top Tips to Improve Your Approval Chances
- Apply to reputable employers with an active sponsorship record.
- Obtain your skills assessment before you get an offer — it speeds the process.
- Provide complete documentation — incomplete files cause delays or refusals.
- Consider a registered MARA migration agent if your case is complex.
- Research housing, schools and healthcare near your employer before relocating.
Final Thoughts
The Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa is an excellent pathway for skilled workers seeking employment, family migration and a clear route to permanent residency in Australia. Regional employers are actively recruiting across health, construction, agriculture, education and ICT — making 2025 a strong year to pursue regional sponsorship and long-term settlement.