494 VISA
Overview
The 494 Visa (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa) is a temporary visa introduced by the Australian government in November 2019 to attract skilled workers to regional areas. This visa falls under the skilled migration category, has a maximum validity of 5 years, and offers a pathway to permanent residency (PR). 494 visa holders can work, study, and live in regional areas of Australia. Regional areas include all locations except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, covering cities like Adelaide, Hobart, and Perth.
Advantages of the 494 Visa
- Pathway to PR: After holding the 494 visa for 3 years and meeting the income requirement (a minimum of AUD $53,900 per year), applicants can apply for the 191 visa to obtain permanent residency.
- Regional Benefits: Visa holders can enjoy regional incentives, such as education, healthcare, and local government support.
- Long Validity Period: The 494 visa is valid for 5 years, offering greater stability compared to other temporary visas.
- Family Inclusion: Spouses and children can be included in the application and will have the right to work and study in Australia.
- No Occupational Ceiling: Working in regional areas provides a wider range of job opportunities with less competition, increasing the chances of securing employment.
Eligibility Criteria
- Occupational List: Applicants must work in an occupation that meets the 494 visa requirements and is listed on the Skilled Occupation List.
- Employer Sponsorship: Must receive a nomination from an employer in a designated regional area of Australia, with proof that no suitable local candidates are available.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of application (unless eligible for an exemption).
- Skills Assessment: A skills assessment is required for the nominated occupation.
- Work Experience: Applicants need at least 3 years of full-time relevant work experience.
- English Language Proficiency: Must achieve a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with no band lower than 6.0 (or equivalent test scores).
- Health & Character Requirements: Applicants must pass medical examinations and character assessments as required by the Australian government.
Application Process
- Check the Occupation List: Ensure your occupation is listed on the 494 visa skilled occupation list.
- Employer Nomination: Find a qualified employer in a designated regional area, who must submit a nomination application on your behalf.
- Skills Assessment: Complete a skills assessment through the relevant assessing authority as per occupation requirements.
- English Language Test: Provide a valid English test result (e.g., IELTS, PTE) that meets the visa criteria.
- Lodge Visa Application: Once the employer nomination is approved, submit your visa application via ImmiAccount.
- Await Approval: Processing times vary based on individual circumstances, typically taking several months.
- Receive Visa Grant: Once approved, you can start working in a regional area as per visa conditions.
Let me know if you need more details on any specific step!