Australia offers multiple employer-sponsored visa options, but two of the most common are the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa and the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa.
While both allow you to live and work in Australia through employer sponsorship, they serve different purposes and have different long-term outcomes.
Similarities
Both the 494 and 482:
- Require an employer sponsor (you must have a job offer).
- Are designed to fill labour shortages in Australia.
- Allow you to live and work in Australia with your family.
- Require meeting skills, qualifications, and English language standards.
- Offer access to Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system) once granted.
Key Differences
| Feature | Subclass 494 (Regional) | Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) |
| Purpose | Attracts skilled workers to regional areas | Addresses nationwide skill shortages |
| Location | Must live, work, and study in a designated regional area | Can live/work in any part of Australia |
| Validity | 5 years (provisional) | Up to 4 years (depending on stream) |
| PR Pathway | Clear pathway to PR via Subclass 191 after 3 years in regional employment | Can lead to PR via Subclass 186, but dependent on occupation and employer |
| Occupation list | Uses a regional occupation list (broader) | Uses the Skills in Demand list (shorter) |
| Employer obligations | Must be an approved sponsor in a regional area | Must be an approved standard business sponsor |
| Visa holder obligations | Must remain in regional employment for 3 years to transition to PR | Must remain with sponsoring employer (unless transferring to another sponsor) or until PR obtained |
Which Visa is Better?
- Choose the 494 if:
- You’re open to living in a regional area
- You want a clear, structured pathway to permanent residency after 3 years
- Your occupation is on the regional list - Choose the 482 if:
- You want flexibility to live in any city or region
- You’re in an occupation with critical shortages on the Skills in Demand list
- You’re looking for a shorter-term work option (with potential PR via Subclass 186)
Why This Matters
Both visas are excellent ways to secure employment in Australia but the right choice depends on your occupation, your employer, and your long-term goals.
At Australian Shores, we help you and your employer understand the best option for your situation and ensure your application is decision-ready.
Contact us today to explore whether the 494 or 482 visa is right for you.
