494 — Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)

The Subclass 494 is a 5-year provisional employer-sponsored visa for skilled workers to live and work exclusively in designated regional areas of Australia. Applicants must be under 45, hold a positive skills assessment, have at least 3 years of relevant experience, and meet Competent English (IELTS 6.0).

The visa is tied to the sponsoring employer and regional location, with work rights restricted to the nominated occupation. It is not renewable, but leads to permanent residency via the Subclass 191 after 3 years. Partners and dependent children are included and hold unrestricted work and study rights.

This visa is ideal for skilled overseas workers with a firm regional employer sponsorship who want a clear 5-year work authorization and a pathway to Australian permanent residency.