The 494 visa requirements apply to the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Subclass 494 visa, which allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia.
This visa is employer-sponsored and provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting residency and income conditions.
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What Is the Subclass 494 Visa?
The Subclass 494 visa is a provisional regional visa designed to address skill shortages outside major Australian cities. It is valid for up to five years and requires sponsorship by an approved regional employer.
Core 494 Visa Requirements
Applicants must meet several mandatory criteria, including:
- Be nominated by an approved regional employer
- Be under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
- Have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Obtain a positive skills assessment
- Have at least three years of relevant work experience
- Meet English language requirements
- Pass health and character checks
These 494 visa requirements must be satisfied at the time of application.
Employer Nomination Requirements
The sponsoring employer must:
- Be actively operating in a designated regional area
- Offer a genuine full-time position
- Pay at least the annual market salary rate
- Demonstrate a genuine need for the role
- Pay the Skilling Australians Fund levy
The employer nomination must be approved before the visa can be granted.
Streams Under the 494 Visa
Employer Sponsored Stream
This stream applies to skilled workers nominated by a regional employer.
Labour Agreement Stream
This stream applies where the employer has a labour agreement with the Australian Government.
English Language Requirement
Applicants must generally demonstrate competent English. Accepted tests include IELTS, PTE Academic, and other approved examinations.
Regional Area Condition
Visa holders must live, work, and study only in designated regional areas. Most areas outside Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane qualify as regional.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
After meeting residency and taxable income requirements for a specified period, Subclass 494 holders may apply for permanent residence under Subclass 191.
Application Process
- Step 1: Employer submits nomination application
- Step 2: Applicant lodges visa application
- Step 3: Provide required documentation
- Step 4: Complete medical and police checks
- Step 5: Await Department of Home Affairs decision
Processing times vary depending on application complexity and government workload.
Costs Involved
- Visa application charge
- Nomination application fee
- Skilling Australians Fund levy (employer)
- Skills assessment fees
- Medical examination costs
Employers are responsible for certain sponsorship-related costs under Australian migration law.
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Failure to meet English language benchmarks
- Insufficient work experience
- Incorrect occupation selection
- Incomplete documentation
Careful preparation significantly improves approval outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 494 visa permanent?
No. It is a provisional visa with a pathway to permanent residence.
Can family members be included?
Yes. Eligible dependents can be included in the application.
Are salary requirements strict?
Yes. Employers must meet the market salary rate and minimum income thresholds.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the 494 visa requirements is essential for skilled workers seeking regional employment in Australia. Meeting nomination, skills, English, and salary criteria significantly increases approval success.