About the Subclass 494 Visa

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) 494 visa allows regional employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers for positions they cannot fill locally. It aims to address critical skills shortages and support long-term workforce stability in regional communities such as the Hunter.

For more information visit Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa 

Key Features

• For genuine, full-time positions located in designated regional areas.
• Requires employer nomination and RCB certification.
• Visa holders must live and work in the sponsoring employer’s regional area.
• May provide a pathway to permanent residency after meeting specified criteria.

Employer Requirements/Eligibility

• The position must be in an eligible skilled occupation.
  Skilled occupations are determined by the Australian Government. For a current list of accepted occupations visit Skilled Occupation List.
• The position must be in an eligible regional postcode.
  The 494 visa is available to positions located in designated regional postcodes. For the Hunter region these include, 2264–2267, 2278, 2280–2308, 2315–2338, 2415, 2420–2421. Workers sponsored to roles outside these postcodes must apply through the RCB responsible for that area. For more information visit Eligible Regional Areas or Regional Postcodes. For jobs located outside the Hunter region you will need to contact the relevant RCB. For more information visit Regional Certifying Bodies
• The salary must at least meet the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) and the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT).
  For more information visit Nominating a Position – Salary Requirements. 
• The position must be genuine and ongoing.
• The employer must demonstrate they cannot fill the vacancy locally.

Skilled Worker Requirements/Eligibility

• Qualifications and/or experience that match the nominated occupation.
• Positive skills assessment (if required for the occupation).
• Minimum English language and age requirements.
• Must meet health and character criteria.