Skilled Employer Sponsored Visa

Eligibility Criteria

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494) lets an approved regional employer sponsor you to live and work in regional Australia for up to five years. You may be eligible if you:

• Are nominated by an approved employer in a designated regional area for an eligible occupation.
• Hold a positive skills assessment for your occupation.
• Have at least three years of relevant work experience.
• Are under 45 at the time of application.
• Have competent English (IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent).
• Commit to living and working in the designated regional area.

After three years you can transition to permanent residency via the subclass 191. Talk to our agent about regional opportunities.

Required Documents

Identity & skills

• Valid passport
• Positive skills assessment for your occupation
• Qualifications and transcripts

Employment & supporting evidence

• Regional employer nomination and employment contract
• Evidence of three years' relevant experience
• Competent English test results
• Police clearances and health examinations

The role must be located in a designated regional area — we confirm postcodes and occupation eligibility upfront.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Eligibility & region check — confirm occupation, experience and a designated regional location.
2. Skills assessment — lodge with the relevant assessing authority.
3. Employer nomination — the regional sponsor lodges the nomination.
4. Visa application — we prepare and lodge your 494 with full evidence.
5. Health & character — complete medicals, biometrics and clearances.
6. Grant & PR pathway — work in the region for three years, then apply for the 191.

Processing typically takes 6–9 months depending on completeness and sponsor accreditation.