ON THIS PAGE YOU WILL FIND:
DIFFEREN VISAS TO AUSTRALIA:
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) Visa
– Regional Pathway to Australian Residency –
The Subclass 494 Visa, also known as the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa, is a specialized visa designed to attract skilled workers to designated regional areas of Australia. It allows approved Australian employers to sponsor skilled individuals for jobs that cannot be filled by local talent. This visa not only enables skilled workers and their families to live, work, and contribute to regional communities but also opens pathways to permanent residency after meeting specific requirements. With a focus on boosting regional development and addressing labor shortages, the 494 Visa is an excellent option for individuals looking for long-term employment opportunities while experiencing the unique lifestyle of regional Australia. By choosing this visa, you can enhance your career, access vital services, and enjoy the welcoming environment of Australia’s thriving regional areas.
What is the 494 Visa?
The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494) allows skilled workers to:
- Live and work in designated regional areas.
- Gain sponsorship from an approved Australian employer.
- Transition to permanent residency after meeting eligibility criteria.
This visa is an excellent option for those seeking a long-term career in regional Australia.
Benefits of the Subclass 494 Visa
Choosing the 494 Visa offers:
- Access to regional work opportunities.
- A clear pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
- Opportunities to bring eligible family members.
- The chance to contribute to regional development in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements for the 494 Visa
To apply for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Employer Sponsorship:
- Be nominated by an approved Australian employer in a regional area.
- Skill Assessment:
- A positive skills assessment is mandatory for the nominated occupation.
- Age Limit:
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
- English Proficiency:
- Applicants must demonstrate Competent English,
- Work Experience:
- Demonstrate at least three years of full-time work experience in the nominated field.
Pathway to Permanent Residency with the 494 Visa
The Subclass 494 Visa provides a pathway to permanent residency after three years through the Subclass 191 Visa. Requirements include:
- Living and working in a regional area for three years.
- Meeting income thresholds during the visa period.
How to Apply for the Subclass 494 Visa
Follow these steps to apply for the 494 Visa:
- Secure a nomination from an eligible employer.
- Gather all required documentation, including skill assessments and proof of English proficiency.
- Submit your application online through the Australian immigration portal.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 494 Visa
1. Can family members be included in the 494 Visa application?
Yes, eligible family members such as your partner and dependent children can be included.
2. What regions are considered “designated areas” in Australia?
Most areas outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are classified as designated regional areas.
3. Can I switch employers while on the 494 Visa?
You may change employers, but the new employer must be located in a designated regional area and meet sponsorship requirements.
Why Choose Regional Australia?
Regional Australia offers:
- A lower cost of living.
- A vibrant lifestyle with abundant career opportunities.
- A higher chance of securing permanent residency pathways.
For more comprehensive information regarding 491 skilled visa contact one of our expert agents at 1300 10 50 50 or email us here.
491 Visa vs. 494 Visa
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) and the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (subclass 494) are both designed to attract skilled workers to regional Australia, but they differ significantly in their requirements and pathways.
The 491 Visa is a points-tested visa that does not require employer sponsorship. Instead, applicants must be nominated by an Australian state or territory or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area. This visa allows skilled workers to live, work, and study in regional areas, with the flexibility to choose their employer or sector, provided they meet the visa’s conditions.
In contrast, the 494 Visa requires sponsorship from an approved Australian employer in a regional area. It is specifically for skilled workers who have been offered a job in a designated regional location. The employer must nominate the worker for a specific occupation and prove there are no suitable local workers available.
While both visas are provisional and provide a pathway to permanent residency, the 491 Visa focuses on individual skills and regional sponsorship, while the 494 Visa is tied to employer nomination and a specific job opportunity in regional Australia.