Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494) — Complete Guide
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa — Subclass 494
ATME · Talent Migration & Education | Updated May 2026
What is the Subclass 494 Visa?
The Subclass 494 visa replaced the former Subclass 187 (RSMS) on 16 November 2019. It is a 5-year provisional visa for skilled workers sponsored by an employer in regional Australia.
After working in a regional area for 3 years, you can apply for the Subclass 191 permanent residence visa.
Two Streams
1. Employer Sponsored Stream
For applicants with a job offer from a regional employer.
Requirements:
– Full-time position from a regional employer
– Occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
– Positive skills assessment
– At least 3 years of relevant work experience
– Under 45 years of age
– Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent)
2. Labour Agreement Stream
For applicants sponsored through a labour agreement. Conditions are set by the specific agreement.
What is “Regional Australia”?
Since November 2019, regional Australia includes all areas outside Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, including:
- Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Canberra
- All towns and rural areas
- All of Tasmania and Northern Territory
Visa Fees
| Applicant | Fee |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | AUD $4,640 |
| Additional applicant (18+) | AUD $2,320 |
| Additional applicant (under 18) | AUD $1,160 |
Employers must also pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy.
Visa Duration & Conditions
- Duration: 5 years
- Condition 8579: Must live and work in a designated regional area
- Work rights: Must work for your sponsoring employer
- Pathway to PR: After 3 years, apply for Subclass 191 permanent residence
Pathway to Permanent Residence (Subclass 191)
After holding the 494 visa for 3 years, you may apply for the 191 visa if you:
1. Have held the 494 for at least 3 years
2. Lived and worked in regional Australia for 3 years
3. Met the minimum taxable income requirement (currently $53,900/year)
4. Complied with visa conditions
494 vs Former 187 Comparison
| Feature | Old 187 (Abolished) | New 494 |
|---|---|---|
| Visa type | Direct PR | Provisional (5 years) |
| PR pathway | Immediate | 3 years then apply for 191 |
| Regional definition | Narrower | Broader (includes Perth, Adelaide etc.) |
| Monitoring | Less strict | Stricter (Condition 8579) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between 494 and 482?
A: The 494 is restricted to regional areas; the 482 applies Australia-wide. The 494 leads to PR via 191; the 482 leads to PR via 186.
Q: Can I change employers?
A: Yes, but your new employer must also be in a regional area and must be approved as a sponsor.
Q: Can my family come with me?
A: Yes. Your spouse and children can be included as secondary applicants with work and study rights.
How ATME Can Help
- Free assessment — Determine if you qualify for the 494
- Employer matching — Help find a regional sponsor
- Skills assessment — Guide you through the assessment process
- Full service — End-to-end visa application management
- 191 PR application — Assist with permanent residence after 3 years
📞 Free consultation: 0402 726 768
📧 info@atme.com.au
🌐 www.atme.com.au
Updated May 2026 by Talent Migration & Education Pty Ltd. Visa policies are subject to change — always verify with the Department of Home Affairs.
MARN: 0801383