Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (SESR)
5-year regional sponsored visa with 673 eligible occupations and a guaranteed pathway to PR after 3 years via 191.
The Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (SESR) is a temporary visa pathway designed for skilled workers sponsored by employers in regional Australia. Granted for 5 years, this visa allows primary applicants under 45 years of age to work in regional areas—essentially all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane—with their families.
A key advantage is the guaranteed pathway to permanent residence through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa, available after three years of continuous regional residence, work, and study. All family members must reside in the designated regional area during this period. The visa supports regional employers struggling to find staff while offering migrants a clear route to settling permanently in Australia.
With 673 occupations on the eligible list, diverse professionals can apply. Applicants must hold a current skills assessment, demonstrate Competent English proficiency (unless from specific Commonwealth nations), and secure sponsorship from an approved Standard Business Sponsor.
Visa Streams
Employer Sponsored Stream
Labour Agreement Stream
Eligibility Requirements
- Under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
- Skills assessment in nominated occupation less than 3 years old
- Competent English (IELTS 6 equivalent) or passport from UK, Ireland, Canada, New Zealand, or USA
- Sponsorship from approved Standard Business Sponsor
- Commitment to live, work, and study in designated regional area
Application Process
Step 1: Obtain Skills Assessment
Secure a current skills assessment in your nominated occupation from a recognised assessing authority.
Step 2: Secure Employer Sponsorship
Identify and obtain nomination from an approved Standard Business Sponsor operating in a regional area.
Step 3: Lodge Visa Application
Submit your Subclass 494 application with all required documentation, including skills assessment and sponsorship details.
Step 4: Obtain Visa Grant
Receive your 5-year Subclass 494 visa and commence regional employment.
Step 5: Transition to PR
After 3 years of regional residence, apply for Subclass 191 Permanent Residence visa.
Costs & Processing Time
Processing Time
Processing times vary. Contact us for current assessment timeframes and application status updates.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
About the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (SESR)
5-year regional sponsored visa with 673 eligible occupations and a guaranteed pathway to PR after 3 years via 191.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What visa conditions apply to the Subclass 494?
Key conditions include: notifying the Department within 14 days of address or employment changes; residing in a regional area; providing evidence of residence and employment upon request; attending interviews if requested; and working only for the nominating employer or associated businesses. Breaching conditions may result in cancellation.
Can I apply for other visas while holding a Subclass 494?
No. There is a 3-year restriction preventing applications for Subclass 124, 132, 186, 188, 189, 190, 820/801, and 858 visas while holding a Subclass 494.
Am I eligible for Medicare with a Subclass 494 visa?
Yes, applicants for the Subclass 494 visa are eligible for Medicare benefits.
What happens if my employment is terminated?
You have 90 days to find another position with the nominating employer, an associated business, or another approved sponsor to maintain compliance.
Can I transition to permanent residence before 3 years?
No. The Subclass 191 Permanent Residence visa is only available after completing 3 years of continuous regional residence, work, and study.
Ready to start your Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (SESR) application?
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