This visa enables regional employers to address identified labour shortages within their region by sponsoring skilled workers where employers can’t source an appropriately skilled Australian worker
Unlocking Opportunities: The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) Visa
Looking for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) visa? We are here to guide you through obtaining the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) visa.
Whether you are an employer seeking to sponsor a skilled worker or an individual aspiring to work and live in Australia, we have gathered all the essential details you need to know. Read on to discover how the Subclass 494 visa can open doors to exciting professional opportunities and a potential pathway to permanent residency.
The Eligibility Criteria for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) Visa:
➤ Applicants must be sponsored by an employer in a designated regional area in Australia.
➤ The applicant must have three years of full-time work experience in their nominated occupation.
➤ The applicant’s occupation must be on the relevant occupation list for the Subclass 494 visa.
➤ Applicants must undergo a skills assessment for their nominated occupation to demonstrate their suitability.
➤ Applicants must meet the English language requirements specified by the Department of Home Affairs.
➤ There is no age limit for this visa subclass, but some age-related restrictions may apply for certain visa pathways.
➤ Applicants must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government.
The application process for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494)
Step 1: Find a Sponsor (Employer)
➤ Secure a job offer from an employer located in a designated regional area in Australia who is willing to sponsor you for the Subclass 494 visa.
Step 2: Nomination by the Employer
➤ The employer needs to submit a nomination application to the Department of Home Affairs, demonstrating that they meet the sponsorship requirements and genuinely need the nominated position.
Step 3: Skills Assessment
➤ You must obtain a positive assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
Step 4: Lodge the Visa Application
➤ Once the nomination is approved, you can lodge your visa application, including all the required documentation, such as identity documents, employment contracts, skills assessment results, and English language test results.
Step 5: Health and Character Checks
➤ You must undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates to meet the health and character requirements.
Step 6: Visa Outcome
➤ The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and decide your visa. You will receive a grant letter and be issued the Subclass 494 visa if approved.
Benefits of The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494):
➤ Temporary Residence: The visa allows you to live and work in Australia for up to 5 years.
➤ Regional Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Subclass 494 visa is a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 (Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)) visa.
➤ Work Rights: You can work for your sponsoring employer in the nominated occupation.
➤ Access to Medicare: You and your family may be eligible for subsidised healthcare under Australia’s Medicare system.
➤ Dependent Family Members: You can include eligible family members in your visa application, providing them with the opportunity to live, work, and study in Australia.
➤ Education Opportunities: You and your family can access educational institutions in Australia, including schools and universities.
Keep in Touch
If you have any further questions or need assistance with your visa application, our team at Pathway Education is here to help. We specialise in immigration and education services, guiding individuals and employers through the complex visa process. Feel free to contact us and take the first step towards your Australian dream.
We hope the information provided on this page has helped you understand the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) visa. It is important to note that immigration laws and policies can change over time, so we recommend visiting the official website of the Department of Home Affairs for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
