One of the visas that have come into effect is the Australian Skilled Employer Sponsored (Regional) Visa - subclass 494. It has replaced RSMS Visa - subclass 187. The new visa is a provisional employer-sponsored one that allows employers to nominate skilled workers.

Skilled Employer Sponsored (Regional) Visa does not grant permanent residency. Unlike previous RSMS visa, the 494 holders can be eligible for Skilled Regional Permanent Residency Visa - subclass 191 in the future.

Enlisted are some points that are part of the criteria:

• Your employer must be located in the designated regional area of Australia
• Adelaide, Canberra, Gold Coast, Geelong, Perth and Sunshine Coast are some existing regional areas. But, some regions like Wollongong, Newcastle and New South Wales Central Coast are expected to become regional areas soon
• If you are a skilled worker, your position has to be part of relevant occupation list. Currently, there are more than 700 occupations
• Before nomination, your employer will require approval from RCB (Regional Certifying Body) in your specific area
• Your current position has to be genuine, full-time and it should be available for five years
• Your salary must be in tune to the market salary rate

• Possess a skills assessment
• Relevant work experience of 3 years, i.e. full time
• Your age should not exceed 45 years
• Show proofs of Competent English

Subclass 494 is a five-year visa. Seek access to permanent residence with the help of Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa - subclass 191. But before PR grant, you have to meet certain conditions such as:

• Work in the designated regional area for three years while you are holding a 494 visa
• Provide annual earnings of 3 years. It is your partner whose name is part of the 494 visa application. Only one of the partners is part of the visa application.
• Your partner has to be the principal applicant of Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa. Both partners, however, have to meet the annual earning requirement.