Subclass 494 Visa: Regional Employer Sponsored
A 5-year provisional visa for skilled workers sponsored by a regional employer, leading to permanent residence through the 191.
Reviewed by Muskaan Ahuja, Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2418455) · Last reviewed
In short: The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494) lets regional employers sponsor skilled workers for up to five years. Applicants generally need a skills assessment, at least three years of relevant experience and competent English, and must live and work in a designated regional area. After three years you may apply for the permanent 191.
Who this visa suits
- Workers with a job offer from a regional employer
- Regional businesses with skill shortages
- Applicants planning permanent residence in regional Australia
| Type | Provisional, up to 5 years |
|---|---|
| Employer | In a designated regional area |
| Experience | Generally at least 3 years |
| Living and working | Only in designated regional areas |
| Pathway to PR | Subclass 191 after 3 years, with a minimum taxable income |
Official information: Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (494). Part of our Employer sponsored services.
Requirements
The main requirements. We check each one against your situation before you apply.
Regional employer
Nominates a genuine position in a regional area.
Skills assessment
Positive assessment for the occupation.
3 years of experience
Relevant to the nominated occupation.
Under 45
Some exemptions.
Competent English
Unless exempt.
Regional living
Live and work only in regional areas.
Document checklist
Most applications need the following. Your exact list depends on your circumstances; we give you a personalised checklist.
- Employer nomination and contract
- Skills assessment
- Employment references for 3+ years
- English test results
- Police certificates and health examinations
Costs
| Visa | Main applicant | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (494) | AUD 6,000–6,500* | Main applicant. The employer also pays nomination fees and the SAF levy. |
*Indicative range only. Government visa charges change often (usually each 1 July) and depend on your circumstances and family members. Your total cost may also include our professional service fee and other costs such as health checks, police certificates, skills assessments and translations. Terms and conditions apply. Confirm the current amount for your family in the official Visa Pricing Estimator, or ask us for a fixed written quote before any work starts.
Step by step
- Check employer and roleRegional location and occupation.
- NominationThe employer nominates the position.
- Visa applicationWith your evidence and family.
- Live and work regionallyKeep address and income records.
- Three yearsMeet the income requirement.
- Apply for the 191Permanent residence.
Common mistakes and refusal reasons
- Moving to a non-regional city
- Not keeping income and address records
- Experience not clearly documented
- Employer or position not genuinely regional
Compare with the points-tested regional 491 or the permanent 186.
Recent changes
1 July 2026: Charge rose to AUD 6,000–6,500*.
Questions
Can’t see your question? Ask a registered migration agent in a free 15-minute consultation.
Book a free consultationCan I change employers on a 494?+
Is Perth regional?+
How do I get PR?+
Can my family come?+
Talk to us about your visa.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with a registered migration agent (MARN 2418455).
- Registered migration agentMuskaan Ahuja, MARN 2418455
- Free 15-minute consultationBy phone, online or at our Hawthorn office
- Reply within 1 business dayCall, WhatsApp or the Free Profile Assessment
- Fixed-fee quote in writingBefore any work starts, no hidden charges