Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)

Key Features of the Subclass 494 Visa

Employer Sponsorship

You must be nominated by an approved regional employer for a genuine, full-time position.

Regional Work Requirement

Employment must be located in a designated regional area of Australia.

Visa Duration

Granted for up to 5 years.

PR Pathway

Eligible to apply for Permanent Residence (Subclass 191) after 3 years, subject to income and compliance requirements.

Eligibility Requirements – Subclass 494

For the Sponsored Worker

• Nominated in an eligible occupation
• At least 3 years of relevant skilled work experience
• Positive skills assessment (where required)
• Meet English language requirements
• Under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
• Meet health and character requirements

For the Sponsoring Employer

• Actively operating business in regional Australia
• Approved Regional Sponsor
• Genuine full-time position for at least 5 years
• Salary meets market rate and income threshold
• Compliance with Australian workplace and migration laws

Pathway to Permanent Residency – Subclass 191

You may be eligible for Permanent Residence (Subclass 191) if you:

• Hold a Subclass 494 visa for at least 3 years
• Earn the minimum taxable income threshold for each year
• Comply with regional residence and employment conditions
• Meet health and character requirements

Planning from day one is critical.

How V CAN Migration Services Helps

We manage both employer and employee obligations, which is essential for regional visas.

Our process includes:

1. Regional Eligibility & Occupation Assessment
2. Employer Sponsorship & Nomination Preparation
3. Skills Assessment & Evidence Strategy
4. Visa Application Lodgement
5. Post-Grant Compliance Monitoring
6. PR (Subclass 191) Transition Planning

We focus on long-term PR outcomes, not risky shortcuts.