Australia Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa Subclass 494: Requirements & Application

Key Takeaways:

• Visa 494 allows Australian businesses to sponsor skilled overseas employees for regional labour shortages when no Australian workers are available.
• Three streams for Visa 494: Employer Sponsored Stream, Labour Agreement Stream, and Subsequent Entrant for family members.
• Required documents include identification, skill assessment, English proficiency, character proof, and specific employer-submitted evidence to support nomination.

Are you a skilled professional looking to work in Australia’s scenic regional areas? Or are you an Australian business facing a talent shortage in your region? Enter the Australia Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa, also known as Subclass 494. This visa acts as a bridge, allowing Australian businesses to sponsor highly skilled overseas employees to fill crucial roles that cannot be easily occupied by local workers. Whether you’re an aspiring visa holder or an employer, understanding the specific streams, eligibility criteria, and application process can be your key to unlocking new opportunities.

Visa 494 is designed with versatility in mind, offering three distinct streams to suit different needs: the Employer Sponsored Stream, Labour Agreement Stream, and Subsequent Entrant Stream. Each stream caters to unique scenarios, making it easier for skilled workers and their families to settle in and contribute to Australia’s regional workforce. But acquiring this visa involves more than just an application; it requires a thorough preparation of documents, adherence to guidelines, and meeting specific eligibility requirements. Read on to uncover a detailed roadmap to successfully navigate the Subclass 494 visa process, whether you’re an employer aiming to fill a gap or an international professional eager to start your journey Down Under.

What is the Australia Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)?

The Subclass 494 visa allows Australian businesses to sponsor highly skilled overseas employees to address labor shortages in specific regions. To qualify, you must possess the necessary skills, and the nominated position cannot be filled by an Australian worker.

Who is Eligible for a Visa 494?

To be eligible for a Subclass 494 visa, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Highly skilled in your field
• Nominated for a position listed in the skilled occupation list
• The position cannot be filled by an Australian worker

What are the Streams Available for Visa 494?

The Subclass 494 visa provides three different streams tailored to varied employment circumstances:

Employer-Sponsored Stream

In this stream, your employer can nominate you for any job listed on the skilled occupation list. You can view the full list here.

Labour Agreement Stream

This stream is suitable if your employer is part of a labor agreement with the Australian government. These agreements facilitate visa acquisition when regular visa options are limited.

Subsequent Entrant

This stream is for family members who wish to join you in Australia after you’ve been granted the Subclass 494 visa. They can apply later as subsequent entrants.

How to Apply for a Subclass 494 Visa?

The application process for the Subclass 494 visa involves several steps:

1. Find an Employer: Secure a sponsorship from an Australian business experiencing a labor shortage.
2. Nominating the Position: Ensure the role is listed on the skilled occupation list.
3. Submit Documentation: Provide proof of your skills, qualifications, and English proficiency.

What Documents Are Required?

Gather the following documents to support your Subclass 494 visa application:

• Proof of skill and qualifications
• Employment offer from the sponsoring Australian business
• English language test results
• Health and character assessments

Where Can I Find More Information?

For more detailed information on the Subclass 494 visa and other immigration options, visit the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website.

By following these guidelines, you can streamline your application process and improve your chances of successfully obtaining a Subclass 494 visa.

What Documents Are Required When Applying for a Visa 494?

Here’s a comprehensive checklist of documents you need to submit for a Visa 494:

• Identification Card
• Skill Assessment and Qualifications
• Proof of Competent Level of the English Language
• Documents Proving Good Character

What If I Am Bringing My Partner or Spouse?

If your partner or spouse will accompany you, include the following documents:

• Their identity documents
• Marriage certificate
• Divorce papers (if applicable)
• Proof of registered relationship
• Evidence that they have a functional level of English

What About Bringing Other Family Members?

For other family members, ensure you have:

• Identity documents
• Character documents
• Proof of other relationships (if applicable)
• Proof of dependency (if applicable)
• Form 47a

What Forms Should I Include?

Be sure to fill out the following forms:

• Form 956
• Form 956a

What Does My Employer Need to Submit for Visa 494 Nomination?

Your employer must provide several documents to nominate you for a Visa 494:

• Your Identity Documents Your employer should submit documents that include your full name, date of birth, transaction reference number, visa grant number for any current or previous visas, and other relevant information.
• Your Employment Contract Your contract must be signed by both you and your employer unless exemptions apply.

What Is Labour Market Testing, and Why Is It Necessary?

Labour Market Testing involves your employer proving that no Australian citizen or permanent resident could fill the position. Your employer must provide:

• Proof that they have advertised the open position
• Confirmation that the market testing was conducted

“If they don’t submit labour market proof, their nomination will not be accepted.”

How Can Employers Prove the Position Is Genuine?

Employers should submit evidence that the position is real, including:

• A clear statement of your duties and responsibilities

What Are Labour Agreement Documents?

If you’re applying under the labour agreement stream, your employer must include:

• Labour agreement documents

Where Can I Find More Information?

For additional and authoritative information, visit the Australian Government’s official page. This page offers detailed guidance on visa requirements and application processes.

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Visa 494?

For a Visa 494, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Age Requirement: Must be under 45 years old at the time of application. Some exemptions may apply.
• Nomination: Must be nominated by an eligible Australian employer with a legitimate business.
• Skills and Experience: Must demonstrate the necessary skills and experience for the nominated position.
• Positive Skills Assessment: Must undergo a skills assessment conducted by qualifying individuals, though some cases may not require this.
• Labour Agreement: If applying under the labour agreement stream, the position must align with the specified labour agreement.

Are There Any Exemptions to the Visa 494 Eligibility Criteria?

Yes, there are a few exemptions:

Age Requirement Exemptions:

• Educational Institution Role: Nominated for a position such as faculty head or lecturer at an Australian university.
• Health Care Workers: If you’ve been working with visa 457 or 482 in the same occupation for at least three years (two years if in regional Australia).
• Scientific Roles: Nominated by an Australian scientific agency or university for specific roles with an ANZSCO skill level 1 or 2.
• Special Visas: Held visa 444 or 461 for at least three years before applying for visa 495 and worked for the employer for at least two years during this period.
• Previous Visas: Held visa 457 or 482 for at least three years, working in the nominated occupation for the same sponsor.
• Annual Earnings: Earned at least AUD158,500 annually while working under visa 457 or 482.

Skills Assessment Exemptions:

• Current Visa Holders: Already hold visa 457 or 482 and underwent a skills assessment.
• Academic Positions: Nominated for an academic role.
• Special Visas: Hold visa 444 or 461.

What Are the Sponsor’s Eligibility Requirements for Visa 494?

Sponsors must fulfill several criteria to nominate someone for a Visa 494:

• Standard Business Sponsor: Must be or have applied to become a standard business sponsor.
• Labor Market Testing: Provide evidence of being unable to find an Australian for the position.
• Salary Requirements: Must be able to pay the nominee at least AUD250,000 or provide the annual salary rate.
• Skills Fund Levy: Must pay the Skills Fund Levy, varying based on business size and employment duration.
• Labour Agreement: Must have a current labour agreement for the labour agreement stream.

For official information on the Visa 494 requirements, visit the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.

By adhering to these criteria, both the applicant and the sponsor can navigate the application process more smoothly.

How Do I Apply for a 494 Visa?

1. Nomination by Your Sponsor

• Your sponsor needs to make a valid nomination for you through ImmiAccount.
• They will receive a transaction reference number. “For a labour stream visa, if your sponsor is not part of the labour agreements, they must first apply to be part of them before nominating you.”

1. Submit Your Visa Application

• After nomination approval, apply for visa 494 via ImmiAccount.
• Attach necessary documents, include the transaction reference number, and pay the application fee. Tip: Don’t forget to prepare all required documents beforehand.

How Long Is a 494 Visa Valid?

• A 494 visa is valid for five years.
• It cannot be extended, but you may apply for permanent residence after three years if eligible.

What Are the Costs Involved for a 494 Visa?

• The primary application fee is AUD4,045.
• Additional fees apply for every accompanying applicant.
• Each family member over 18 with no functional English proficiency level must pay an extra AUD4,890.

Can I Include My Family Members in My 494 Visa Application?

• Yes, you can bring family members.
• If they can’t apply simultaneously, explain why in your application.
• Family members can join later by applying for a subsequent entrant visa 494.

Can I Pursue Education With a 494 Visa?

• You can study, but only in specific regional areas of Australia.

Where Can I Work With a 494 Visa?

• Work is restricted to regional Australia.
• This excludes Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

How Can I Transition to Permanent Residence After a 494 Visa?

• You may apply for permanent residence after three years on a 494 visa.
• If you haven’t held the visa for three years, you cannot apply for several other visas, including:
• Business Talent-Subclass 132
• Employer Nomination Scheme-Subclass 186
• Business Innovation and Investment Provisional-Subclass 188
• Skilled Independent-Subclass 189
• Skilled Nominated-Subclass 190
• Distinguished Talent-Subclass 858
• Partner Visa-Subclass 820

What Are the Conditions of a 494 Visa?

• Begin working within 90 days of visa grant or entry into Australia.
• Work only for the sponsoring employer in regional Australia.
• You and your family must comply with Australian laws and regulations.

For more information on visa requirements, visit the official Australian Government website.

“Ensure you meet all conditions to maintain your visa status.”

This guide offers a clear, step-by-step approach to the 494 visa application process, helping ensure you understand all requirements and steps.

Sure, here’s a well-structured list of official and relevant external resources pertaining to the Australia Skilled Regional Visa Subclass 494:

Official Immigration Resources

1. Australian Government Department of Home Affairs – Subclass 494 Overview:

• URL: Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494)
• Description: This page provides comprehensive information about the Visa 494, including eligibility, the application process, required documents, and frequently asked questions.

1. Australian Government Department of Home Affairs – Skill Occupation List:

• URL: Skilled Occupation List
• Description: This resource contains the list of occupations that are eligible for nomination under the skilled worker visas.

1. Australian Government Department of Home Affairs – Visa Application Forms:

• URL: Forms for Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visas
• Description: Direct access to essential forms required during the application process, including Form 47A (Dependent non-migrating minor).

Specific Forms for Visa 494

1. Form 956 – Appointment of a migration agent or exempt person:

• URL: Form 956
• Description: This form should be used to appoint an agent or exempt person to assist with your visa application.

1. Form 956a – Appointment or withdrawal of an authorized recipient:

• URL: Form 956a
• Description: Used to nominate or withdraw an authorized recipient for receiving communication about your visa application.

English Language Proficiency

1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System:

• URL: IELTS Australia
• Description: One of the accepted tests for proving English proficiency for visa applications.

1. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language:

• URL: TOEFL Australia
• Description: Another recognized test for assessing English language proficiency for visa purposes.

Skill Assessment Authorities

1. Australian Government Department of Home Affairs – Skills Assessment Explorer:

• URL: Skills Assessment
• Description: Use this tool to find the relevant assessing authorities for your occupation.

Health and Character Requirements

1. Australian Government Department of Home Affairs – Health Requirements for Visa Applicants:

• URL: Health Requirements
• Description: Detailed guidelines on required health assessments for visa applicants.

1. Australian Government Department of Home Affairs – Character Requirements:

• URL: Character Requirements
• Description: Information on the character requirements that applicants must meet.

General Information

1. Australian Government – Information on Australia’s Regional Areas:

• URL: Regional Australia
• Description: This page provides information about living and working in Australia’s regional areas, which are eligible under the Visa 494 guidelines.

Contact and Support

1. Australian Government Department of Home Affairs – Contact Us:

• URL: Contact Home Affairs
• Description: Direct contact links for queries related to visa applications.

By utilizing these resources, applicants and employers can obtain accurate, updated, and official information to guide them through the Visa 494 application process successfully.