Skilled Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494)

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494) replaced the 187 visas (Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme) on November 16, 2019, essentially acting as an updated version designed to
address labor shortages in regional areas of Australia. Here, employers can sponsor skilled workers for temporary residency with the idea of permanent residency after meeting specific regional requirements. For expert advice and support, consult the best education and migration consultant in Sydney, Australia, to navigate the process and achieve your migration goals.

Essential Eligibility Criteria for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (subclass 494)

Nominated by an Approved Sponsor: You must be nominated by a business or organization officially recognized by the Australian government as an approved sponsor. This sponsor must confirm that they need your specific skills for a particular role.
Occupation on a Relevant Skilled Occupation List: Your job title must be on one of Australia's skilled occupation lists. These lists identify in-demand occupations that determine eligibility for various visas. You cannot apply for this visa if your occupation is not on the list.
Suitable Skills Assessment: You must pass a skills assessment related to your occupation. This assessment checks if your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards for the job you're nominated for. It must be conducted by a relevant authority for your occupation.
Age Requirement: You must be under 45 years old at the time of application. This ensures that applicants can contribute to the workforce for a significant period.
Minimum English Language Proficiency: You need to meet the Australian government's minimum English language proficiency standards. This usually involves taking a recognized English language test (like IELTS or TOEFL) to show you can effectively communicate in an English-speaking work environment.

Employer-sponsored stream

Duration and Area: Live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years. These areas exclude Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Travel: Freely travel to and from Australia while the visa is valid.
Permanent Residence: Apply for permanent residence after holding the visa for 3 years if eligible.
Family Inclusion: Include family members in the application, with additional costs for dependents.
Digital Link: No need for physical labels in passports; visa details are linked digitally.

Eligibility Criteria

Age: Must be under 45 years old (some exemptions apply, e.g., academic nomination or medical practice in regional areas).
Approved Sponsor: Must be nominated by an approved sponsor.
Skills Assessment: Required to pass a skills assessment.
English Proficiency: Must meet English language requirements.
Health and Character: Must meet health and character standards.

Obligations and Compliance

Additional Information

This visa provides a structured opportunity for skilled individuals and their families to live and work in regional Australia, with the potential for permanent residency.

Labour Agreement Scheme

Duration and Area: Live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years. Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are excluded.
Travel: Freely travel to and from Australia while the visa is valid.
Permanent Residency: Apply for permanent residency after holding the visa for 3 years if eligible.
Family Inclusion: Include family members in the application, subject to health and character criteria.
Cost: Main applicant's visa cost starts from AUD 4,770, with additional fees for dependents based on age and English proficiency.
Processing Time: Check processing times using the visa processing time guide tool.

Eligibility and Compliance

Responsibilities

This visa provides a structured way for skilled individuals and their families to establish themselves in regional Australia, with the potential for permanent residency. Compliance with all conditions and responsibilities is essential for a successful stay.

Subsequent Entrant

Stay Up to 5 Years Visa Option

Duration and Cost: Stay in Australia for up to 5 years, starting at AUD 4,770.00.
Living and Working: Live, work, and study in designated regional areas.
Travel: Unrestricted travel to and from Australia during the visa’s validity.
Eligibility: Must be a family member of a primary SESR visa holder.
Processing Times: Check the visa processing time guide tool for updates.

Subsequent Entrant Visa

Duration and Cost: Stay in Australia for up to 5 years, costing AUD 4,770.00. No extensions beyond 5 years.
Living and Working: Live, work, and study in designated regional areas.
Travel: Unrestricted travel to and from Australia while the visa is valid.
Eligibility: Must meet health and character requirements.
Permanent Residency: Possible after 3 years from the primary visa holder’s grant.
Additional Charges: May apply for those aged 18 and above without functional English.

Compliance and Preparation

Visa Conditions: Must comply with all visa conditions and Australian laws.
Digital Link: Visa is electronically linked to the passport.
Travel Preparation: Ensure valid travel documents and fulfill border requirements.
Reporting Changes: Report any changes in personal circumstances.

This visa provides a structured pathway for individuals and their families to live, work, and study in regional Australia, with the potential for permanent residency. Compliance with all conditions and responsibilities is essential for a smooth and successful stay.

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Skilled Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494)