Australia Visa – Work – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494

1. What is the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494?


The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494) is a temporary visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an employer in regional Australia. This visa allows skilled workers to live and work in specific regional areas of Australia for up to five years, with the possibility of permanent residency after three years. It was introduced in November 2019 as part of the Australian government’s efforts to address skill shortages in regional areas and encourage settlement in these regions.

2. Who is eligible for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494?


The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 is for skilled workers who have been sponsored by an employer to work in a specified regional area of Australia. Applicants must also meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Meet the minimum qualifications and skills requirements for the relevant occupation as listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Regional Occupation List (ROL)

2. Have a valid skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority

3. Have at least competent English language proficiency

4. Be nominated by an employer who is actively and lawfully operating in a designated regional area of Australia

5. Have an occupation that is on the relevant list of occupations for regional employment

6. Be under 45 years of age at the time of application

7. Meet health and character requirements.

For more information about eligible occupations and designated regional areas, applicants can refer to the Department of Home Affairs website or consult with a registered migration agent.

3. Can I apply for this visa if I am already in Australia on a different visa?


It is possible to apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) while you are in Australia on a different visa. However, you must meet all of the eligibility criteria and provide sufficient evidence to support your application. You also need to ensure that your current visa does not have any conditions that prevent you from applying for another visa while in Australia. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or registered migration agent before submitting your application.

4. How long does it take to process a Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 application?


The processing time for a Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 application can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the completeness of the application, the workload of the processing office, and any additional information or documentation requested by the Department of Home Affairs. Generally, most applications are processed within 8-12 months, but it is recommended to check the current processing times on the Department’s website for a more accurate estimate.

5. How much does the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 cost?

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 costs AUD $4,045 for the main applicant. Additional fees may apply for each dependent included in the application. The cost may also vary depending on any additional services or assistance you receive from a migration agent or visa processing company. For the most up-to-date information on visa costs, it is recommended to check the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ website.

6. Do I need to have a job offer in order to apply for this visa?

Yes, one of the requirements for a Tier 2 visa is to have a job offer from a UK employer. The employer must also be registered as a sponsor with the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship.

7. Can my partner and children be included on my application?


Yes, your partner and children can be included on your application. They will be considered as secondary applicants and you will need to provide proof of their relationship to you (e.g. marriage certificate for spouse, birth certificates for children). Their inclusion may also affect the overall points score of your application.

8. Is there an age limit for applying for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494?


Yes, there is an age limit for applying for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494. Applicants must be under the age of 45 at the time of application, unless they are exempt based on certain occupations or if their age would not adversely affect the region’s workforce needs. Additionally, they must not have turned 45 when their visa application was lodged.

9. What are the English language requirements for this visa?


The English language requirements for this visa vary depending on the specific stream you are applying under. Here are the different requirements for each stream:

1. Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189):
You must demonstrate competent English language skills by either:
– Obtaining a minimum score of 6 in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing and speaking) in an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test; or
– Obtaining a minimum score of at least ‘B’ in each of the four components (reading, writing, speaking and listening) in an Occupational English Test (OET); or
– Obtaining a minimum score of at least ‘P’ in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing and speaking) in a Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT); or
– Obtaining a minimum score of at least ‘169’ in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing and speaking) in a Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic).

2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190):
The English language requirements are same as subclass 189 – competent level.

3. Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa (Subclass 489):
You must have at least vocational English language proficiency to be eligible for this visa. This can be demonstrated by:
– Obtaining a displayable test result for one of the following tests within three years before submitting your application: IELTS with an overall band score of at least 5; or OET with grades A or B only; or TOEFL iBT with an overall mark of at least 35; or PTE Academic with an overall mark of at least 36.; or
– Having obtained all primary school, secondary school and tertiary qualifications from educational institutions where instruction was conducted entirely in English.

4. Skilled Regional Subclass 887:
You must have at least functional English language proficiency to be eligible for this visa. This means that you should meet the minimum score requirements in one of the following tests: IELTS with a minimum overall band score of 4.5; or OET with grades A or B only; or TOEFL iBT with a total score of 32; or PTE Academic with an overall mark of 30.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum English language requirement is not a guarantee for obtaining this visa. You will still need to fulfill other eligibility criteria, such as having a relevant occupation and skills assessment, and meeting the points requirement for your specific visa subclass.

10. Do I need to pass a skills assessment before applying for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494?


Yes, applicants for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 need to pass a skills assessment before applying. This assessment must be completed by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation and must show that you have the necessary skills and qualifications to work in your nominated occupation. The results of the skills assessment will also determine whether you meet the minimum requirements for age, English language proficiency and work experience for this visa.

11. Is there any quota or cap on the number of visas issued under this category each year?


There is no specific quota or cap on the number of visas issued under this category each year. However, there is an overall limit on the number of visas issued for all employment-based categories, which is currently set at 140,000 per fiscal year. This includes all employment-based immigrant visas (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, etc.), so the number of visas available for EB-4 may vary each year depending on demand and usage of visas in other categories.

12. Can I include dependents other than my partner and children on my application?


Yes, you may include other dependents on your application as long as they meet the requirements set by the immigration authority of the country you are applying to. These requirements may vary but typically include age, relationship to the primary applicant, and financial support. Some countries may also have restrictions on who can be included as a dependent, such as only allowing spouses and children. It is important to check with the specific immigration authority for their guidelines on including dependents in your application.

13. How long is the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 valid for?


The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 is typically valid for five years from the date of grant. However, this may vary depending on individual circumstances and the duration of sponsorship provided by the employer. After five years, the visa holder may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the subclass 191 visa.

14. Will I automatically become a permanent resident through this visa?

No, a visa only grants you permission to enter the country. To become a permanent resident, you must go through the process of applying for permanent residency and meeting the eligibility requirements. This often includes living in the country for a certain period of time, having a job or family ties in the country, or meeting other specific criteria.

15. Can I work in any occupation while holding a Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494?

Yes, you can work in any occupation as long as it is located in a regional or designated area of Australia. Your employer must also have the necessary labour market testing and nomination requirements in place for your specific occupation. You should check with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure that your occupation is eligible for this visa.

16. What happens if my employer terminates my employment during my stay in Australia?

If your employer terminates your employment during your stay in Australia, you will need to find a new employer and apply for a new visa. If you are unable to find another job, you will need to leave the country before your current visa expires. It is important to notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes in your employment status as it may affect the conditions of your visa.

17. Am I allowed to study while holding a Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494?

Yes, you are allowed to study while holding a Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494. The visa specifically allows for the visa holder to undertake any studies or training they choose as long as it does not interfere with their work commitments.

However, you must ensure that you meet all the conditions and requirements of your employment contract, including your work hours and duties. You also must comply with all Australian laws and regulations related to your studies.

You may be required to provide evidence of your course enrollment and academic progress when applying for a permanent residency under the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa subclass 494.

It is important to note that this visa does not provide any additional study benefits or entitlements. You will need to cover any tuition fees and other costs associated with your studies.

Furthermore, keep in mind that if you change your primary occupation while studying, it might affect your eligibility for permanent residency under this visa.

Overall, studying while holding a Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494 can enhance your skills and qualifications, making you more competitive in the local job market and increasing your chances of securing permanent residency in Australia.

18. Can I change employers after obtaining this visa?


Yes, you can change employers after obtaining this visa. However, you will need to notify the Australian Department of Home Affairs and get a new valid nomination from your new employer before you start working for them. The new employer will also need to go through the nomination process and prove that they have a genuine need for your skills and that they are willing to meet the same employment conditions as stated in your original nomination.

19. Is there a minimum salary requirement for this visa?

Yes, there is a minimum salary requirement for this visa. It varies depending on the specific job and location, but it is typically at least £30,000 per year. Applicants must also meet the appropriate salary thresholds for their occupation as set out by the UK Visas and Immigration agency.

20. Are there any health or character requirements that need to be met before being granted a Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa 494?

Yes, applicants must meet the following health requirements:

– Applicants must undergo a medical examination by a panel doctor approved by the Australian government.
– They must not have any significant medical condition or disease that would pose a threat to public health or cause excessive demand on health care resources in Australia.
– Applicants may also be required to take additional tests or provide further information if deemed necessary by the examining doctor.

In terms of character requirements, applicants must:

– Provide a police clearance certificate from each country they have lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
– Be of good character and not have any substantial criminal record.
– Sign an Australian values statement to confirm their intention to comply with Australian laws and respect the country’s way of life.

Applicants who do not meet these requirements may still be granted a visa if there are compelling and compassionate circumstances.