Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)
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What this visa is
Subclass 494 is a 5-year provisional visa for workers nominated by an employer in regional Australia. The occupation list is broader than 482 (over 500 occupations), and you transition to permanent residence via the 191 visa after three years.
Where applications go wrong
494 needs the employer to be in a designated regional area, the role to be genuine and full-time, and you to commit to working only for that employer in that region. A migration agent vets the employer’s sponsorship status, checks whether the role qualifies, and structures the case so you stay eligible for the 191 transition later.