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Subclass 494
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa
A five-year visa for skilled workers sponsored by an employer in designated regional Australia.
ProvisionalApply: In or outside Australia
Who this visa is for
Skilled workers with a job offer from an employer in a designated regional area.
- Visa type
- Provisional
- Where you apply
- In or outside Australia
- Length of stay
- 5 years
- Work
- Work for your sponsor in regional Australia
- Next step
- Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa 191 after 3 years
Key requirements
- A regional employer nominates you for a genuine position
- You are under 45, unless an exemption applies
- A positive skills assessment
- At least three years of relevant work experience
- At least competent English
- Health and character requirements
What this visa lets you do
- Live and work in designated regional Australia for five years
- Bring your family, who can live, work and study in regional areas
- Medicare
General information only, current at November 2026. Visa criteria, fees and processing change often, including each 1 July. Book a consultation for advice on your situation.
Thinking about the 494?
Book a consultation and we'll check whether you meet every criterion before you apply.