Subclass 494 — Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional

WorkEmployer Sponsored/Labour AgreementPR Pathway ✓

For skilled workers nominated by an employer in regional Australia.

Cost

$4,640

AUD

Processing

6-12

months

Duration

5 years

Work Rights

Full-time for sponsor in regional area

📋 How to Apply — Step by Step

⚠️ Age limit: must be under 45 at time of application

•Regional areas offer lower cost of living and often faster visa processing
•The 3-year pathway to PR (via 191) is a strong incentive to consider regional options
•Some regional employers struggle to find workers — this can work in your favour

✗Assuming all of Australia outside capital cities is regional — Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are excluded
✗Not maintaining regional residence for the full 3 years required for PR pathway
✗Underestimating the remoteness of some regional areas

✅ This visa provides a pathway to Australian Permanent Residency

What regional areas qualify?

All of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. This includes Gold Coast, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, and all rural/regional areas.

Can I transition to permanent residency?

Yes, after living and working in a regional area for 3 years, you can apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa.

What is the income threshold?

You must earn at least the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), currently AUD $70,000 per year.

Enables employers to address labour shortages by sponsoring skilled overseas workers.

For highly specialised work for short periods.

Occupational training or professional development in Australia.

Participate in specific activities including entertainment, research, religious work.

Always verify requirements with the official source before applying.