NEW SUBCLASS 494 SKILLED EMPLOYER SPONSORED VISA – ARE YOU ELIGIBLE?
Subclass 494 visa will replace the 187 (RSMS) visa on 16 November 2019.
This is a 5 year provisional visa. If you meet the visa conditions, you can apply for subclass 191 permanent visa.
Are you eligible for 494 visa?
You must meet the following:
- Your employer must be located in a designated regional area of Australia and have obtained approval from the Regional Certifying Body (RCB) in your area.
- (NOTE: The entire State of Western Australia becomes regional area on 16 November 2019)
- Your position is on the relevant occupation list. There is over 700 occupations listed in the instrument for 494 visa.
- The position must be full-time, genuine and likely to be available for five years
- You must be paid at the market salary rate
- You hold and obtain positive skills assessment.
- You have at least three years of full time and relevant skilled work experience.
- You are under 45 years of age
- You must demonstrate Competent English
Pathway to Permanent Residency!
You can apply for subclass 191 (Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)) visa if you meet the following requirements:
- You hold 494 or 491 visa.
- You have worked in the designated regional area for at least three years.
- Either you or your partner made an income of at least $53,900 annually for past three years.
Difference between 494 Visa and 187 Visa
There are 2 main differences compared to the subclass 187 (RSMS) visa:
- 494 visa is a provisional visa, not a permanent visa.
- You do NOT require the employer’s nomination to apply for the 191 visa.
Are you on 482 Visa?
IF:
- You are on 482 visa (especially short-term 2 year visa);
AND
- You are on the new 494 visa occupation list;
You should consider switching to 494 visa as soon as possible, as the new 494 visa will give you a pathway to permanent residency through subclass 191 visa, whereas the subclass 482 (short term) visa does NOT allow you to apply for permanent visa.