Auskly Group：Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494) is a key pathway for addressing labor shortages in regional Australia. This visa allows Australian employers in designated regional areas to sponsor skilled workers from overseas or those already in Australia, facilitating economic development and addressing workforce needs in regions outside major metropolitan areas.

Streams and Eligibility

The Subclass 494 visa comprises two primary streams:

1. Employer Sponsored Stream:

   • For skilled workers nominated by an approved employer in a regional area of Australia.

   • Applicants must have their occupation listed on the relevant regional occupation list.

   • Requires a positive skills assessment and at least three years of full-time work experience in the nominated occupation.

2. Labor Agreement Stream:

   • For applicants sponsored under a labor agreement between the Australian Government and an employer.

   • Tailored to industries or regions facing unique workforce challenges.

   • Occupations and concessions under this stream depend on the terms of the labor agreement.

Key Requirements

To be eligible for the Subclass 494 visa, applicants must:

• Be under 45 years of age at the time of application (with limited exemptions).

• Meet the English language proficiency requirements.

• Possess qualifications and skills relevant to the nominated occupation.

• Provide a positive skills assessment (if required for the occupation).

• Meet health and character requirements.

Employers must be approved sponsors and demonstrate that the nominated position cannot be filled locally.

Benefits

The Subclass 494 visa provides several advantages for both employers and workers:

• For Employers: Access to a broader pool of skilled workers to address regional skill shortages.

• For Workers:

  • Temporary residence in Australia for up to five years.

  • Pathway to permanent residency through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191) after three years, provided specific income and residency criteria are met.

  • Ability to live, work, and study in designated regional areas.

Recent Updates

The Australian Government continually updates occupation lists and eligibility criteria to reflect labor market demands. Recent changes have emphasized attracting skilled workers to high-demand sectors in regional areas, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure development.

The Subclass 494 visa plays a vital role in addressing regional skill shortages while promoting economic growth and population sustainability in Australia\u2019s regional areas. For the latest information, employers and applicants should consult the Department of Home Affairs.