Employer Regional Visa (Subclass 494)

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) visa is a provisional employer-sponsored visa that allows businesses in regional Australia to nominate highly skilled professionals for long-term work and residence. It provides a clear pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting eligibility requirements.

3-Stage Application Process

Sponsorship

The employer applies for or holds approval as a standard business sponsor

Nomination

The employer nominates the position and identifies the skilled worker

Visa Application

The applicant applies for the Subclass 494 visa under the relevant stream

Key Highlights

  • Apply from inside or outside Australia
  • Live, study, and work permanently in Australia
  • Two visa streams: Employer Sponsor and Labour Agreement
  • Stay in Australia for up to 5 years
  • Eligible to apply for permanent residency (Subclass 191 visa) after 3 years if requirements are met

Eligibility Requirements

Common Criteria for All Streams

  • Employer’s nomination must be approved
  • Employer must be an Approved Work Sponsor
  • You must have a genuine intention to perform the nominated role
  • The nominated position must be genuine and located in a designated regional area
  • Meet health and character requirements
  • Satisfy all Public Interest and Special Return criteria
  • Meet stream-specific Nomination and Visa criteria, which may include having an occupation on the eligible skilled occupations list, obtaining a Regional Certifying Body (RCB) assessment, and providing a positive skills assessment

Employer Sponsor Stream

  • Be under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
  • At least 3 years of relevant employment experience (unless exempt)
  • Positive Skills Assessment in your nominated occupation (unless exempt)
  • Demonstrate Competent English (exemptions may apply)
  • Must be employed in your nominated occupation by your sponsoring employer

Labour Agreement Stream

  • Occupation must be covered by a labour agreement between your employer and the Australian Government
  • Be under 45 years of age, unless otherwise agreed under the labour agreement
  • Have appropriate skills, qualifications, and experience for the role
  • At least 3 years of relevant employment (unless waived under the agreement)
  • Meet English proficiency requirements as specified in the agreement
Important Notice: The above information is a summary only. Migration laws and visa conditions change frequently. Please contact Starks Immigration Services for the most up-to-date advice tailored to your case.

Why Choose Starks Immigration Services?

At Starks Immigration Services, we specialise in employer-sponsored regional migration. Our team assists both employers and skilled professionals to meet sponsorship, nomination, and visa requirements with precision—making the path to permanent residency smoother.

01

Expert Guidance

At Starks Immigration Services, we provide personalized support from the very beginning—starting with your Expression of Interest (EOI), all the way through to your final visa grant. Our team makes sure you understand each step clearly, so you can move forward with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.

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Trusted Immigration

Australian immigration laws and policies change frequently. At Starks, we stay on top of the latest updates to provide you with accurate and timely advice. Our trusted guidance ensures your application is aligned with current regulations, improving your chances of a successful outcome.

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It is valid for up to 5 years. After 3 years of living and working in regional Australia, you may be eligible for permanent residency via the Subclass 191 visa.

Yes, you can include eligible family members such as your partner and dependent children.

For most applicants under the Employer Sponsor stream, a skills assessment is required, unless exempt.

Most areas outside Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are considered regional. The government regularly updates the official list of designated regional areas.

You must work for your sponsoring employer in the nominated position. If you want to change employers, a new nomination and approval may be required.

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