Subclass 494 Processing Time

Subclass 494 Visa Processing Time 2024

The processing time for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) visa in 2024 depends on several factors, including the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ priorities and whether a complete, decision-ready application has been lodged, as well as the time taken to complete required health examinations.

Subclass 494 Visa Processing Factors

The processing time for the Subclass 494 visa can vary based on individual circumstances, such as:

  • Whether you have submitted a complete application with all necessary supporting documents.
  • How quickly you respond to requests for additional information.
  • The time taken to perform checks on the information provided.
  • The time required to receive information from external agencies, particularly concerning health, character, and national security.
  • Changes in application volumes and Ministerial policy directions.

Many recent applicants have experienced the following processing times:

Subclass 494 Visa Processing Time (Employer Sponsored Stream)

  • 25% of applications: Not available
  • 50% of applications: 90 days
  • 75% of applications: Not available
  • 90% of applications: 8 months

As of November 2023, for applicants outside Australia, the median processing time is 11 months.

Subclass 494 Visa Processing Time (Labour Agreement Stream)

  • 25% of applications: Not available
  • 50% of applications: 48 days
  • 75% of applications: Not available
  • 90% of applications: 6 months

The median processing time for this stream is 4 months.

Subclass 494 Visa Processing Time (Subsequent Entrant)

Processing times for subsequent entrants are currently unavailable.

Pathway to Permanent Residency (Subclass 494 to Subclass 191)

After working in a designated regional area for three years, you may apply for the Subclass 191 visa. The processing time for the Subclass 191 visa can vary depending on individual circumstances, which may include:

  • Whether a complete application has been lodged.
  • The speed of response to additional information requests.
  • The time taken for checks on supporting documents.
  • The time required to receive information from external agencies for health, character, and security clearances.
  • The number of available spots in the migration program.

Subclass 494 Visa Transfer Processing Time

There are no provisions for transferring subclass 494 visa nominations.

Subclass 494 Subsequent Entrant Processing Time

Processing times for subsequent entrants are not available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Visa 494 processing time?
Under normal circumstances, the processing time for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) visa typically ranges between 1 to 6 months.

Disclaimer: ‘Aussie Migration Services Pty Ltd’ and its associates are independent consulting entities and are not affiliated with the Australian Department of Home Affairs (DOHA). The information provided here does not constitute personalized migration advice. For customized advice based on your specific circumstances, please contact one of our Immigration Consultants or register your interest with our associates.