Eligibility Requirements
All criteria must be satisfied at time of application.
Approved Sponsor
Your employer must be an approved sponsor located in a designated regional area of Australia.
Eligible Occupation
Your occupation must appear on the MLTSSL or STSOL plus the regional occupation list.
Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority is required before lodging.
TSMIT Compliance
Salary must meet the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (~$73,150 p.a.).
English Language
At least "competent" English (IELTS 6.0 in each band, or equivalent).
Age Under 45
You must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation or application.
Visa Streams
The 494 operates through two distinct streams.
Employer Sponsored Stream
Your employer nominates you directly. The most common pathway — the employer must be an approved sponsor in a designated regional area and the role must be on the eligible occupation list.
Labour Agreement Stream
Used when a formal Labour Agreement exists between an employer and the Australian Government. Allows sponsorship of occupations or under terms not available through standard sponsorship.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
The 494 is a stepping stone to the Subclass 191 permanent visa.
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
Employer Nominates
Your approved regional employer lodges a nomination application for the subclass 494.
Visa Application
Lodge your 494 visa application after your employer's nomination is approved.
Arrive & Work Regionally
Live and work in a designated regional area for at least 3 years on a full-time basis.
Apply for Subclass 191
After 3 years, apply for permanent residence through the Subclass 191 visa.
Key Considerations
Important factors to keep in mind throughout your 494 journey.
You must stay regional
Relocating to a major excluded metro area while on the 494 will jeopardise your pathway to the 191 PR.
Employer ties
You are tied to your sponsoring employer unless you obtain a new nomination. Job changes require a new employer nomination.
191 waiting period
The 3-year regional residence requirement is strictly enforced. Ensure you keep records of residence and employment.
Family members
Secondary applicants (spouse, children) can be included in the 494 and can also transition to the 191.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Subclass 494 visa.