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Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494

Your Guide to the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 

skilled immigration visa australia

What is the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494?

The skilled employer sponsored regional visa 494 enables regional employers in Australia to sponsor skilled workers when they are unable to find suitably skilled Australian workers. This visa is a pathway to permanent residency, offering opportunities for skilled professionals to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. 

Streams of Temporary Skill Shortage Visa 494

This visa is classified into three main streams: 

temporary skill shortage visa 482
  • Employer Sponsored Stream 

The Employer Sponsored Stream of the skilled employer sponsored regional visa 494 enables regional employers to address specific labour shortages by sponsoring skilled workers. This stream is specifically designed to ensure that regional Australia benefits from the skills and talents of overseas workers, contributing to the growth and development of these areas. Key features include: 

  • Residency: You can live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. This provision is aimed at enhancing the economic and social fabric of these regions by bringing in skilled individuals who can contribute to local communities. 
  • Permanent Residency Pathway: After holding the visa for three years, you can apply for permanent residence, providing a pathway to settle permanently in Australia. This is a significant incentive for skilled workers seeking long-term opportunities. 
  • Duration: The visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to five years, giving ample time to establish yourself and contribute to the regional economy. 
  • Processing Time: For an indication of processing times for this visa, use the visa processing time guide tool available on the official Australian visa website. This tool provides the most up-to-date information based on recently decided applications. 
  • Labour Agreement Stream 

The Labour Agreement Stream is intended for skilled workers nominated by employers who have a labour agreement with the Australian government. These agreements are designed to fill roles that cannot be met by the Australian labour market. Key features include: 

  • Employer Requirements: Employers must have an active labour agreement with the government. These agreements are tailored to the needs of industries facing chronic labour shortages, ensuring that the influx of skilled workers aligns with the specific demands of the sector. 
  • Duration: Similar to the Employer Sponsored Stream, this visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to five years, supporting the long-term development of regional areas through skilled labour. 
  • Processing Time: Refer to the visa processing time guide tool for recent application decisions. This ensures applicants have realistic expectations regarding the timeframe of their visa processing. 
skilled employer sponsored visa

Common Application Requirements for All Streams

gsm visa australia

To qualify for the skilled employer sponsored regional visa 494, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

  • Nomination: Be nominated by an approved work sponsor. 
  • Occupation: Have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list. 
  • Skills Assessment: Possess a suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation. 
  • Age: Be under 45 years of age. (exemptions apply for age, experience and skill assessment) 
  • English Proficiency: Meet the minimum English language proficiency standards. 

Application Process 

Applying for the skilled employer sponsored regional visa 494 involves several steps to ensure that both the employer and the applicant meet all the necessary criteria. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the application process: 

  • Step 1: Employer Nomination 

  • Employer Sponsorship: Your prospective employer must become an approved sponsor. They need to demonstrate a genuine need to fill a position with an overseas skilled worker. 
  • Nomination Approval: The employer must lodge a nomination application to nominate you for a position that fits your skills and qualifications. This nomination must be approved before you can apply for the visa. 
skill independent visa subclass 189
494 skilled employer sponsored regional
  • Step 2: Prepare Your Documents 

  • Skills Assessment: Obtain a suitable skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. 
  • English Proficiency: Ensure you meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements. This typically involves taking an approved English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL. 
  • Health and Character Checks: Complete the required health examinations and obtain police certificates to meet the health and character requirements. 
  • Supporting Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your passport, employment history, educational qualifications, and any other documents specified by the Department of Home Affairs. 
  • Step 3: Lodge Your Visa Application 

  • Create an ImmiAccount: Register for an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website to manage your visa application online. 
  • Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form for the 494 skilled employer sponsored regional visa. Ensure all information is accurate and complete. 
  • Attach Supporting Documents: Upload all required documents to your application. Ensure that all documents are clear, legible, and certified where necessary. 
  • Pay the Application Fee: Pay the visa application fee using the available
employer nomination scheme subclass 186
regional sponsorship visa 494
  • Step 4: Await Processing 

  • Application Processing: Your application will be processed by the Department of Home Affairs. Processing times can vary, so it is important to refer to the visa processing time guide for an estimate. 
  • Additional Information: You may be asked to provide additional information or attend an interview. Respond promptly to any requests from the Department to avoid delays. 
  • Step 5: Visa Decision 

  • Visa Outcome: You will be notified of the outcome of your visa application. If approved, you will receive details of your visa grant, including visa conditions and the duration of your stay. 
  • Visa Grant: If your visa is granted, you can make arrangements to move to Australia. Ensure you understand and comply with all visa conditions. 
494 employer sponsored visa
skilled employer sponsored regional visa 494
  • Step 6: Post-Visa Grant 

  • Arrival in Australia: Upon arrival, you can start living, working, and studying in the designated regional areas specified in your visa conditions. 
  • Permanent Residency Pathway: After three years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency, provided you meet all the necessary criteria. 

Current Updates and Additional Information

skilled regional visa

For the most accurate and up-to-date details, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and the latest news, visit here. This resource provides detailed information and updates essential for prospective applicants. 

Contact us today for a free consultation! 

KnN Migration’s experienced team will guide you throughout the process, ensuring a smooth journey.

FAQs

The skilled employer sponsored regional visa 494 is a provisional visa that allows regional employers in Australia to sponsor skilled workers when they cannot find appropriately skilled Australian workers. This visa enables holders to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. 

To be eligible for the 494 skilled employer sponsored regional visa, you must: 

  • Be nominated by an approved work sponsor 
  • Have an occupation on a relevant skilled occupation list 
  • Have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation 
  • Be under 45 years of age 
  • Meet minimum standards of English language proficiency 

The regional sponsorship visa 494 allows you to stay in Australia for up to five years. During this time, you can live, work, and study in designated regional areas. 

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency after three years from the time your 494 employer sponsored visa is granted, provided you meet the necessary requirements. 

The Employer Sponsored Stream allows regional employers to sponsor skilled workers to fill specific labour shortages. Key features include residency in designated regional areas, a pathway to permanent residency, and a stay duration of up to five years. 

The Labour Agreement Stream is for skilled workers nominated by employers who have a labour agreement with the Australian government. This stream allows a stay of up to five years and is designed to meet specific industry needs where local labour is insufficient. 

The Subsequent Entrant visa is for family members of a 494 skilled employer sponsored regional visa holder who wish to join the primary visa holder in Australia. It allows family members to stay for up to five years. 

You can check the processing time for your visa application using the visa processing time guide tool available on the official Australian visa website. This tool provides the most recent processing times based on recently decided applications. 

Yes, certain Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa holders had their visas extended by three years on 18 February 2022 due to the impact of COVID-19. For more details, please refer to the official Australian visa website. 

For personalized assistance with your skilled employer sponsored regional visa 494 application, contact KnN Migration Consultancy. Our experienced consultants are ready to guide you through every step of the visa application process. 

Contact KnN Migration!

Our team of experts can assess your eligibility, guide you through the application process, and ensure a smooth journey towards your Australian dream. 

GSM Visa Australia

    Disclaimer

    The details shared above were accurate as of July 2024, but it’s important to note that migration regulations change over time. This information is meant for general understanding and should not be taken as legal advice. Keep in mind that information can change, so reach out to us for the latest guidance tailored to your situation. We look forward to assisting you!

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