AUS
USA
NZ
UK
CAN
EU
GER
IRE
UAESkilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494)
The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (494) visa lets an approved employer in a designated regional area sponsor a skilled worker. It lasts 5 years, and you may be able to apply for permanent residence through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) (191) visa after 3 years.
Reviewed by Arun Padmani, MARN 2418630 · Government charges checked November 2026Main requirements
- You are nominated by an approved employer in a designated regional area.
- Your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- A suitable skills assessment for your occupation, and the work experience the occupation requires.
- Under 45 years of age.
- English language ability.
- Health and character requirements.
Pathway to permanent residence
- The 494 is a provisional visa for up to 5 years.
- After 3 years you may apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) (191) visa. The 191 needs you to have held an eligible visa for at least 3 years and to give Australian Tax Office notices of assessment for 3 of the last 5 income years.
- You live and work in a designated regional area while you hold the visa.
Government visa application charge
| Visa | Charge (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (494), main applicant | $6,140 |
Sponsorship, nomination and levy charges are separate. The income thresholds apply to Skills in Demand (482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (186) applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026.
Common questions
Which areas count as regional?
Designated regional areas are set by the Department. Check the position postcode with us before you accept a job.
Is the 494 a permanent visa?
No. It is provisional. The Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) (191) visa may follow if you qualify.
Is a skills assessment needed?
A suitable skills assessment is a requirement for this visa. We help you choose the assessing authority and prepare.
Employer or employee?
We help employers become approved sponsors and nominate positions, and we help workers prepare their own applications.
Book a consultationArun Padmani, MARN 2418630All employer sponsored visas
Read the guide →Skills assessment
Most occupations need a positive assessment before you apply. We help you choose the authority and prepare.
Read the guide →