Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494): Your Regional Pathway to Permanent Residency
The Subclass 494 visa lets skilled workers nominated by regional Australian employers live, work, and study in designated regional areas for 5 years—with a direct pathway to permanent residence after 3 years. Three streams. One destination: permanent residency.
Quick Overview
Stay
5 Years
Cost
From AUD4,910.00
Work Rights
Work for your sponsor in designated regional areas only
Family
Include partner and dependent children
Citizenship
Apply for Subclass 191 after 3 years
The Three Streams
The Three Streams Choose the stream that matches your situation:
Employer Sponsored Stream
For skilled workers nominated by a regional employer who can’t find appropriately skilled Australians locally. You’ll need:
You'll need:
- Occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Positive skills assessment (unless exempt)
- At least 3 years relevant work experience
- Competent English
- Employer nomination in a designated regional area
- Under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
Labour Agreement Stream
For skilled workers whose employer holds a labour agreement with the Australian Government. You’ll need:
You'll need:
- Employer with a current labour agreement
- Occupation listed in the labour agreement
- At least 3 years relevant work experience
- English and skills as specified in the agreement
- Under 45 (unless the agreement states otherwise)
- Stay
- Cost
- Processing
- 5 Years
- AUD4,910.00
- processing guide
Subsequent Entrant Stream
For family members joining a primary 494 visa holder in regional Australia who were not included in the original application. You’ll need:
You'll need:
- Be a family member of a primary 494 visa holder
- Written letter from the work sponsor extending their sponsorship to include you
- Functional English (or pay the second instalment)
- Health and character clearances
- Stay
- Cost
- Processing
- 5 Years
- AUD4,910.00
- Processing guide
Ready to Start?
Your Regional Future Starts Here Let’s identify the right stream and build your strongest application.
