494 (Regional Employer Sponsored) Visa

Application Criteria:

Applicants need a suitable skills assessment and a minimum of 3 years’ skilled employment. The visa is valid for five years. Specific conditions ensure visa holders exclusively reside, work, and study in designated regional areas and designated jobs (condition 8579). Working in the designated occupation for the designated employer within 90 days of visa issuance is mandatory, or the visa may be revoked.

Visa Streams:

• Employer-Sponsored stream
• Labour Agreement stream
• Subsequent entrant

Features:

• Regional Residency: Restricted to living, working, and studying exclusively in designated regional areas in Australia for 5 years.
• Travel Allowance: Permits to travel to and from Australia for 5 years.
• Permanent Residence Eligibility: Eligible to apply for permanent residence after 3 years from visa grant, if qualified.

Eligibility:

• Employer Nomination: Nominated by an approved work sponsor.
• Occupation Requirement: The occupation must be on a relevant skilled occupation list.
• Skills Assessment: Requires a suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
• Age Limit: Applicants must be under 45 years of age.
• Language Proficiency: Minimum English language proficiency standards must be met.