The Australian Government has officially opened applications for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa 2025, now allowing families to apply together for up to five years of residence and work rights. This visa aims to strengthen regional employment by inviting skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas. It offers a clear pathway to permanent residency, provided applicants meet income, employment, and location requirements. Families can now accompany the main applicant, making this one of the most attractive migration options in 2025 for skilled professionals seeking long-term settlement opportunities in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria for Australia’s Subclass 494 Visa 2025
To qualify for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa, applicants must have a valid job offer from an approved regional employer in Australia. The position must be listed on the eligible skilled occupation list and must pay at least the market salary rate. The applicant should be under 45 years of age at the time of application, possess competent English language skills, and have a positive skills assessment for their nominated occupation. Health and character requirements also apply. Additionally, applicants must commit to working and living in a designated regional area for at least three years to qualify for permanent residency.
Family Inclusion and Key Benefits for 2025
One of the major highlights of the Subclass 494 visa is that it allows applicants to include immediate family members such as spouses and dependent children in the application. Family members receive the same regional work and study rights, healthcare access, and educational benefits. The visa is valid for five years, giving families ample time to establish themselves in regional Australia. After three years, holders may transition to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa. This pathway supports regional employers by addressing skill shortages and encourages long-term community settlement.
Application Process and Regional Employer Sponsorship Rules
The application process involves three main stages: nomination, application, and assessment. First, an approved regional employer must nominate the applicant for an eligible role. Once the nomination is approved, the worker can apply for the visa online via the Department of Home Affairs portal. Applicants must upload all supporting documents, including skills assessments, proof of employment offer, and health and character certificates. The processing time varies between 6–12 months depending on the case. Employers must prove they have been unable to find an Australian citizen or permanent resident for the role before sponsorship approval.
Key Details: Australia Subclass 494 Work Visa Overview
Below is a summary of important details regarding the new five-year Subclass 494 visa for families in 2025. This table outlines eligibility, costs, and major benefits under the new Australian migration rules.
| Category | Details (2025 Updates) |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa |
| Duration | 5 Years |
| Eligible Applicants | Skilled workers sponsored by regional employers |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse and dependent children allowed |
| Age Limit | Under 45 years at the time of application |
| English Requirement | Competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent) |
| Pathway to PR | After 3 years via Subclass 191 Visa |
| Estimated Processing Time | 6 to 12 months |
| Regional Areas Covered | All states except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane metro regions |
| Visa Fee (Approx.) | AUD 4,640 (Main Applicant) + Dependent Charges |
Centrelink 2025 Couples Pension Rate Changes in October 2025 – $3,300 for Eligible Recipients
FAQs on Australia 5-Year Subclass 494 Visa 2025
1. Can my family travel with me under this visa?
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can be included in the application.
2. Can I apply for permanent residency after 3 years?
Yes, if you meet the income, work, and location criteria, you can apply for Subclass 191 PR.
3. Do I need employer sponsorship for this visa?
Yes, a regional employer must nominate you before applying for the visa.
4. Which areas are considered ‘regional’ in Australia?
All parts of Australia except metropolitan Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are classified as regional.
