Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494): Work and Live in Regional Australia with QBase

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494) allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for up to 5 years. Sponsored by an eligible regional employer, this visa provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.

Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494): Work and Live in Regional Australia with QBase

The Subclass 494 visa is designed to address skill shortages in regional Australia by enabling employers to sponsor skilled workers for positions that cannot be filled locally. With QBase, applicants can secure trusted sponsorship support and enjoy opportunities for long-term settlement in Australia’s regional communities.

Why Choose This Visa?

This visa is ideal for skilled workers who want to contribute to regional Australia, enjoy high-demand employment opportunities, and eventually transition to permanent residency.

Visa Streams

Employer-Sponsored Stream

For skilled workers nominated by an approved regional employer for a position in regional Australia.

Labour Agreement Stream

For skilled workers nominated by an employer under a labour agreement with the Australian Government.

Benefits

Live, work, and study in a designated regional area of Australia for up to 5 years.

Access to Medicare during your stay.

Include eligible family members in your visa application.

Pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after 3 years, subject to eligibility.

Opportunity to gain valuable regional work experience and settle in Australia permanently.

Application Process

Find a regional employer (such as QBase) willing to sponsor you for an eligible occupation.

Employer submits a nomination application for approval.

Gather required documents, including skills assessment, work experience, and English proficiency results.

Submit your visa application through ImmiAccount, linked to the approved nomination.

Complete health and character checks as requested.

Await processing and decision from the Department of Home Affairs.

If granted, commence employment and regional residency under the visa conditions.

FAQs

Can I apply for permanent residency after the 494 visa?

Yes, after holding the 494 visa and living/working in a regional area for 3 years, you may apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191).

Do I have to stay with my sponsoring employer?

Yes, you are generally required to work only for your sponsoring employer in your nominated occupation. Changes require approval and a new nomination.

Can I include family members?

Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children in your application. They will also have work and study rights while living in regional Australia.

Is there an age limit?

Yes, applicants must be under 45 years old unless an exemption applies (such as certain labour agreement arrangements).

What English level is required?

You need to show competent English, usually IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) in each band.