Subclass 494 Visa

The 494 visa, introduced on 16 November 2019, is a provisional visa with a migration pathway (via Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191) which comes into effect on 16 November 2022.

See this link for further information on the subclass 191 specifically designed to respond to chronic labour market shortages experienced by businesses operating in regional Australia. This visa will allow visa holders to work in Australia for 5 years for the nominating employer in the nominated position in regional Australia.

The 494 visa is a 3 step process like the subclass 482 visa (with some additional requirements for the nomination and visa processes).

Step 1: Business applies to become a Standard Business Sponsor

Both Australian and overseas businesses are able to become Standard Business Sponsors. The sponsorship approval lasts for 5 years.

To be approved as a standard business sponsor, the business must demonstrate that:

• The business is lawfully and actively operating in or outside of Australia

• The business is financially viable

• The business has a genuine need for the nominated position

• There is no adverse information known about the business

• The business has a strong record of, or demonstrated commitment to, employing local labour

• The business must not have engaged in discriminatory recruitment practices

• The business may apply for Accredited Status if additional criteria are met

Step 2: Nominate the position

The employer must apply for permission to sponsor an overseas resident to fill a position in the business. The main criteria here are:

• The position must be located in a designated regional area (excluding Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne)

• The position is in an occupation on the list of eligible occupations – there are more than 600 eligible occupations. Note that caveats are applicable to specific occupations

• Position must be full time and available for 5 years

• Employer will need Regional Certifying Body certification, which includes an assessment on whether the annual market salary rate is adequate for the area

• The nominee is paid a market rate salary and this salary is not less than the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) of $53,900

• Labour Market Testing (LMT) must have been completed, unless an exemption is applicable

• Payment of the Skilling Australian Fund Levy (SAF Levy) is payable at the time of nomination

Step 3: Apply for 482 visa application

To meet the requirements of the subclass 482 visa, the visa applicant will need to:

• Be under 45 years of age

• Demonstrate Competent English

• Hold a suitable skills assessment, unless exempted

• Have at least three years of full time and relevant skilled work experience at the skill level required for the nominated occupation

• Be of good health and character

How can we help?

If you want to know more about the Subclass 494 visa or any other visa options, please contact one of our consultants today to discuss further.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case specific information or advice, please contact SCA Connect.