Employer Sponsored stream
This visa enables regional employers to address identified labour shortages within their region by sponsoring skilled workers where employers can’t source an appropriately skilled Australian worker.

Labour Agreement stream
This stream is for skilled workers nominated by employers who have a labour agreement. Labour agreements are developed between the Australian Government (represented by the Department) and employers.

The 494 Visa allows skilled workers to be sponsored by an Australian employer in a regional area for up to five years. Regional areas include everywhere except the metropolitan areas of: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Perth.

You may be eligible to apply for a 494 visa:

Age

You must be under 45 at the time of application unless exempt.

Experience

You must have at least 3 years relevant work experience in the nominated occupation or a related field. You must have been employed in the nominated occupation for at least 3 years on a full-time basis and at the skill level required for the nominated occupation.

Generally, you should have gained your experience within the last 5 years. The period does not need to be continuous. We might consider equivalent part-time work. We do not consider casual work.

Applicants must gain this experience within the previous 5 years before applying. Part-time work may be considered. Casual work will not be considered.

Occupation

TSS Visa applicants must be qualified or have sufficient experience in an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.

Sponsor
(unless under the Labour agreement stream)

Before you can apply for a TSS visa, your proposed employer will need to submit a nomination application for you.

They will only be able to do this if they are an approved sponsor or have at least submitted an application to become a Standard business sponsor.

Nomination

Employer Sponsored stream

• You must be nominated by an Australian employer, who is a Standard Business Sponsor operating lawfully in Australia.
• You must be employed in a regional area and working under an eligible occupation.
• The nomination application must be lodged before your visa application.

Labour Agreement Stream

• The nominated occupation must be the subject of a labour agreement between the Commonwealth and the nominator.

Skill Assessment

You must have a positive Skill Assessment, in your nominated occupation, from the relevant assessing authority unless you are exempt.

English

You must have at least Competent English to apply for this visa

Health & Character

You must meet the health and character requirements

Others

• Not have had a visa cancelled or a previous application refused.
• Have paid back your debt to the Australian government.
• Sign the Australian values statement