Subclass 494 · Subsequent Entrant stream
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494): Subsequent Entrant stream
For family members joining a 494 visa holder in regional Australia after the main visa is granted.
About the Subsequent Entrant stream
Join your family member in regional Australia.
- Live, work and study only in designated regional areas for up to 5 years
- Travel in and out of Australia while the visa is valid
AUD6,140.
In or outside Australia, but not in immigration clearance.
Eligibility
What family members need.
You must be a family member of the main 494 visa holder or main applicant.
The employer with the most recent approved nomination for the main visa holder must agree in writing to include you.
You must show Functional English.
You and family members applying with you must meet the health requirement, and those aged 16 or over the character requirement. Permanent and provisional visa applicants, and family members applying with them, must have health examinations with an approved panel physician. Temporary visa applicants might need them, depending on the visa and their circumstances. For the character requirement, Home Affairs may ask for police certificates and Form 80.
Applicants 18 or over read the Life in Australia booklet and sign the Australian Values Statement, government debts must be repaid or arranged, and previous refusals or cancellations are considered.
Step by step
How to apply.
Get expert advice first
Book a consultation with Outlook Immigration. Our registered migration agent will assess your eligibility, confirm this is the right visa for you and explain your options before you apply. Book a consultation.
Gather your documents
Prepare identity, residence, work or study, and English evidence.
Apply online
Lodge your application in ImmiAccount.
After you apply
Respond to any requests for more information, health checks or police certificates. Home Affairs may also ask for health examinations, police certificates or biometrics (fingerprints and a facial image).
When you have this visa
Life on the 494.
You and your family must live, work and study only in a designated regional area.
Work in your nominated occupation for your sponsor or an associated entity, unless your occupation is exempt.
After 3 years, you may apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191).
Based on Department of Home Affairs information (October 2026). Visa costs, thresholds, occupation lists and processing times can change, so always confirm current details on the Department of Home Affairs website or ask our team. This page is general information, not migration advice for your circumstances.
Other Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494) Streams
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494): Subsequent Entrant stream FAQs
Straight answers to the questions we hear most.
Still have questions?
Book an appointment with a registered migration agent and get clear answers about your visa options.
Book Appointment- MARA Registered
- QEAC Certified
Yes, through the Subsequent Entrant stream, with your employer's written agreement.
Functional English.
AUD6,140.
Hiring or Working in Regional Australia?
We prepare the nomination and visa together for regional employers and workers.
