SKILLED EMPLOYER SPONSORED REGIONAL VISA
SUBCLASS 494
The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Subclass 494 visa is a temporary visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an employer in a designated regional area of Australia. The Subclass 494 visa is availabe under two different streams: Employer Sponsored Stream and Labour Agreement Stream
Disclaimers: While we strive to ensure the information on this website is accurate and up to date, the information provided on this website is intended as a general guide and was accurate at time of publication.. Migration laws and policies can change frequently. We recommend visiting the Department of Home Affairs' website for the most current information.
The visa requirements listed on this website are general guidelines and represent the most common criteria. However, additional requirements or different criteria may apply based on individual circumstances. It is important to consult with an immigration professional or the relevant authorities to ensure you meet all specific requirements for your situation.
Subclass 494 - Employer Sponsored Stream
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
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You must have been nominated for an occupation listed in a relevant skills list and by an Australian employer who is or have applied to become a Standard business sponsor
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You must be under 45 years of age, unless exempt
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You must be employed to work for the nominating employer in your nominated occupation
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You must be able to demonstrate you have the skills, qualification and employment background to perform occupation
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You must have a positive skills assessment if required for your occupation
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You must have Competent English
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You must maintain adequate health insurance
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You must meet health and character requirements
WHAT THIS VISA ALLOWS YOU TO DO
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Live, work and study in a designated regional area of Australia for up to 5 years
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Travel to and from Australia during the validity of the visa
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Apply for permanent residence, if eligible
IMPORTANT INFORMATION*
Subclass 494 visa holders should be aware that:
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They must comply with all conditions imposed on the visa applicant when the visa was granted
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They must obey Australian law
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They must maintain adequate health insurance for the whole duration of their stay in Australia
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FEES AND CHARGES
Government Visa Application Charges
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First Instalment
Base visa application charge for a Employer Sponsored Regional Provisional (Subclass 494) is of AUD4,910.00​.
Additional applicant charge for those who are 18 or over is of AUD2,455.00
Additional applicant charge for those under 18 is of AUD1,230.00​
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Second Instalment
Primary applicants 18 and over without Functional English: AUD9,800.00
Secondary applicants 18 and over without Functional English: AUD4,890.00
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Please check the Department of Home Affairs' website for the latest information relating to visa application charges
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Please note that the visa application charge is the application fee charged by the Department to assess the application. Any professional fees or other services such as police checks, health examinations, translations, etc., are charged separately.
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View our schedule of fees for professional services here.
PROCESSING TIMES
Processing time for a Subclass 494 visa application in the Employer Sponsored Stream may vary from 2 to 8 months depending on the individual circumstances and completeness of the application.
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More information may be found at the Department's website.