The Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494) is a temporary visa designed for skilled workers nominated by an employer in a regional area of Australia to fill a position that cannot be filled by the local workforce. This visa allows individuals to live and work in regional Australia for up to five years, with the potential to transition to permanent residency after meeting specific work and income requirements over three years. The Subclass
494 visa provides the opportunity for skilled workers to contribute to regional Australia’s economy, while offering a pathway to long-term settlement in the country.

To be eligible for the Subclass 494 visa, applicants must meet certain criteria, including nomination by an eligible employer in a regional area, relevant skills, qualifications, and work experience in the nominated occupation, and meeting the age and English language proficiency requirements. Applicants must also undergo a positive skills assessment by the relevant authority for many occupations and demonstrate at least three years of work experience. The visa is
restricted to working for the nominating employer in the specified regional area, and applicants must live and work in the regional area throughout the duration of their visa.

The application process begins with employer nomination, followed by the submission of the visa application, health and character checks, and a waiting period for a decision from the Department of Home Affairs. If the application is approved, the visa holder will be granted temporary residency for up to five years, with the potential to transition to permanent residency after meeting the required criteria. The cost of the Subclass 494 visa starts from AUD 4,770.