Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 494)

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 494) allows regional employers in Australia to address labor shortages by sponsoring skilled workers. This visa is valid for 5 years, during which holders must adhere to specific conditions to become eligible for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (Subclass 191).

Streams of the Subclass 494 Visa:

1. Employer Sponsored Stream: For skilled workers nominated by an employer in a designated regional area.
2. Labour Agreement Stream: For skilled workers nominated by an employer with a labor agreement.
3. Subsequent Entrant: For family members of Subclass 494 visa holders who wish to join them in Australia.

Application Process:

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

1. Standard Business Sponsorship: The employer must become an approved sponsor.
2. Regional Certifying Body (RCB) Application: The employer must obtain advice from an RCB to ensure the position is genuine and cannot be filled by an Australian worker.
3. Nomination Application: The employer nominates a position for the prospective employee.
4. Visa Application: The nominated skilled worker applies for the Subclass 494 visa.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be nominated to work in an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
• Have at least 3 years of relevant work experience in the nominated occupation.
• Possess a valid skills assessment for the occupation, unless exempt.
• Be under 45 years of age, unless exempt.
• Meet minimum English language proficiency standards.

Visa Conditions:

Holders of the Subclass 494 visa must comply with the following conditions:

• 8515: Must not marry or enter into a de facto relationship before entry.
• 8578: Notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes to passport or contact details.
• 8579: Live, work, and study only in designated regional areas.
• 8580: Provide evidence of residential, work, or study addresses if requested.
• 8581: Attend an interview if requested.
• 8608: Work only in the nominated occupation and for the nominating employer in regional Australia.

Visa holders must commence employment within 90 days of visa grant and adhere strictly to these conditions to avoid visa cancellation.

Designated regional areas include all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

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