Skilled Sponsored Visa Types
Regional Employer Sponsored Visa
The Regional Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494) allows skilled workers to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years, with a pathway to permanent residency.
Whether you are an employer facing a skills shortage or a skilled professional seeking opportunities outside major cities, Maven Consulting Group Melbourne provides expert support to make your application process smooth and successful.
Who This Visa Is For
Skilled workers with an eligible occupation and a confirmed job offer in a regional area.
Employers in regional Australia who cannot fill a position with local talent and wish to sponsor a qualified overseas worker.
Temporary visa holders seeking a pathway to permanent residency via the Subclass 191 visa after meeting regional requirements.
Key Benefits
- Live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia for up to 5 years.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency through the Subclass 191 visa after 3 years, if eligibility conditions are met.
- Ability to include eligible family members in your application.
Streams of the Subclass 494 Visa
- Employer-Sponsored Stream
For skilled workers nominated by an approved regional employer.
- Labour Agreement Stream
For applicants sponsored under a formal labour agreement between an employer and the Australian Government.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants generally need to:
- Be nominated by an approved regional employer.
- Have an occupation listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
- Possess a positive skills assessment and at least 3 years of relevant experience.
- Be under 45 years of age (some exemptions apply).
- Demonstrate competent English proficiency.
- Meet health and character requirements.
Employers must demonstrate labour market testing and meet sponsorship obligations.
Step-by-Step Process
Our registered migration agents provide:
- Eligibility assessments for both employers and employees.
- Guidance on skills assessments, nomination, and visa lodgement.
- Preparation and review of all documentation to reduce delays.
- Ongoing advice to ensure employer compliance with sponsorship obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long is the Subclass 494 visa valid?
It is a provisional visa valid for up to 5 years. After 3 years of living and working in a regional area, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
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Can I include my family members in the application?
Yes. You can include your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children if they meet health and character requirements.
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What if I change employers after my visa is granted?
You must work only for the approved sponsoring employer in the nominated occupation. If you wish to change employers, a new nomination is required.
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What are the key requirements for employers?
Employers must be located in a designated regional area, be an approved sponsor, and show that they cannot fill the position with an Australian worker.