Subclass 494
Regional Temporary Work Visa
The Subclass 494 is a five-year provisional visa that allows skilled overseas workers to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia under employer sponsorship. It was introduced in November 2019, replacing the former Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187), and is specifically designed to help regional businesses fill genuine skill shortages where no suitable local worker can be found. With around 9,000 places allocated annually, it remains one of the key regional migration pathways available in Australia.
What Does “Regional” Actually Mean?
This is one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of the visa. For migration purposes, “regional” does not mean remote or rural. It covers the vast majority of Australia — essentially everywhere outside the metropolitan areas of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. This means major cities such as Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin, Canberra, and the Gold Coast all qualify as regional under this visa.
Two Streams
The 494 visa operates across two streams.
Employer Sponsored stream
Labour Agreement stream
Key Considerations
Occupation Lists
Unlike the 482 Skills in Demand visa which uses the Core Skills Occupation List, the 494 operates from different occupation lists — primarily the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Regional Occupation List (ROL). The ROL tends to have broader coverage than the CSOL, particularly for roles that are specific to regional industries and workforce needs.
Employer Obligations
Who Is It Best Suited For?
Conditions While on the Visa
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The Subclass 408 is a temporary visa that allows people to come to Australia for specific, short-term activities or work that does not fall under standard skilled migration or work visa categories. It is a broad and flexible visa covering a wide range of activities — from entertainment and sport to religious work and cultural exchange. It is not a pathway to permanent residency and is designed strictly for temporary stays.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Common Questions To 494 Regional Temporary Work Visa
What are the prerequisites for a 494 Regional Temporary Work Visa?
How difficult is the process for a 494 Regional Temporary Work Visa?
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How much does a 494 Regional Temporary Work Visa?
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How do I begin?
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