This visa allows employers to sponsor eligible skilled workers for regional work, and it gives them access to permanent residency after three years of employment in certain areas of Australia. This allows employers in regional parts of Australia that may need help finding qualified employees the opportunity to recruit talented individuals from other regions or countries. It also incentivizes temporary residents to remain employed in Australia, thus contributing more significantly to their local communities.
The sub 494 visa can benefit employers and employees alike. It encourages economic growth by connecting people with job opportunities across the continent and giving them more mobility when looking for new career paths.
Things you can do with this visa
Once a sub 494 visa is granted, provided the visa holder maintains the nominated employment within the designated regional area, they can remain in Australia for up to five years, with a permanent residency pathway available after three years. Dependent family members may be included and must also live, work and study in a designated regional area.
The Employer Sponsored Regional (sub 494) visa is designed for individuals who have been offered a job in regional Australia and would like to work in the designated area for up to five years. Once the visa is granted, the successful applicant can remain in Australia as long as they maintain their nominated employment within their designated regional area.
The Employer Sponsored Regional (sub 494) visa offers employers the opportunity to fill vacancies with skilled workers from overseas while at the same time providing those workers with an extended stay in Australia. It also helps employers prevent potential skill shortages due to a lack of local talent and encourages businesses to invest more in regional communities by bringing international skills and knowledge into rural towns. In addition, this type of visa can provide significant advantages for both the employer and employee, such as increased access to educational opportunities and improved job security.
Who can apply?
Skilled workers looking to make a home in regional Australia can apply for a Sub 494 visa. This type of visa is designed to support the growth of regional economies and provide job opportunities outside major cities. The scheme allows employers in regional areas to nominate overseas workers with an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list (ROL). To be eligible for this visa, applicants must be sponsored by the relevant employer, have a validly nominated occupation on the ROL, and meet all other requirements outlined by the Department of Home Affairs.
The skilled worker must also be able to demonstrate work experience or qualifications that match their nominated occupation, have proof that they are capable of performing their duties as stated in their nomination, and satisfy all mandatory health and character thresholds set out by the Department.
Requirements
- To be eligible for a 489 visa, primary applicants must meet the requirements below.
- Between the ages of 18 and 44, you’re eligible.
- Please have at least Competent English or more advanced, and their family members that are 18 or older have at least Functional English.
- At least three years of relevant experience is required.
- Hold a positive assessment task in your designated profession.
- Meet health requirements and character standards.
How to apply
Employer Sponsored Regional (sub 494) visa applications require an employer nomination to be lodged on the applicant’s behalf. This nomination aims to outline the specific role and employment conditions for which the applicant has been chosen and to provide evidence that an Australian citizen or permanent resident cannot fill the position. If a successful nomination is approved, it will authorize an employer sponsored regional visa application.
Applying for an Employer Sponsored Regional visa begins with submitting an expression of interest via Skillselect. Once this has been accepted, applicants must submit their visa application forms and all required documents and fees. Supporting documentation should include proof of qualifications and work experience related to the nominated occupation, evidence of English language proficiency, and supporting financial documentation such as bank statements or payslips.
Read more about