Imagine working in Australia, enjoying its stunning landscapes and thriving economy, while securing a path to permanent residency for your family. The Subclass 494 Visa makes this dream possible by offering skilled professionals an opportunity to live and work in regional Australia.
What is the Subclass 494 Visa?
The Subclass 494 Visa, also known as the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa, allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. It’s a temporary visa that provides a clear pathway to permanent residency after three years. The visa is divided into three main streams:
1. Employer Sponsored Stream: For those nominated by a regional employer.
2. Labour Agreement Stream: For workers under specific labor agreements.
3. Subsequent Entrant: For family members of existing visa holders.
Why Choose the Subclass 494 Visa?
This visa offers unique benefits that make it stand out from other Australian work visas:
1. 5-Year Validity: Live and work in regional Australia for five years.
2. Permanent Residency Pathway: After three years, you can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa.
3. Family Inclusion: Bring your partner and children with you, allowing them to work and study in Australia.
4. Access to Public Healthcare (Medicare): You and your family can benefit from Australia’s public healthcare system.
5. Regional Lifestyle: Live in affordable, relaxed areas of Australia, away from major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
Eligibility for the Subclass 494 Visa
To apply for the 494 Visa, you need:
- A job offer in a regional area.
- Your occupation must be on one of Australia’s skilled occupation lists.
- At least three years of full-time work experience.
- A skills assessment and English language proficiency.
- Health and character checks for you and your family.
- Applicants must be under 45 years old unless exempt.
How to Apply
The process involves two steps:
1. Employer Nomination: You can only get work in regional Australia if your employer nominates you for a particular position.
2. Visa Application: Once nominated, you can seek the 494 Visa at the official immigration site through the Internet.
Depending on certain circumstances and in a few years this visa gives one an opportunity for permanent residency and in turn form a family here in Australia.