Chief Executive or Managing Director — Subclass 494 Pathway
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa · 5 years provisional → PR pathway via Subclass 191
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 494 — Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
- Points test
- Not points-tested
- Sponsor
- Employer sponsor required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSLSTSOLROLCSOL
- Base fee
- from $4,770 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~9-18 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Chief Executive or Managing Director for migration purposes is handled by: IML.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Chief Executive or Managing Director × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
The Chief Executive or Managing Director occupation (ANZSCO 111111) qualifies for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa as it appears on the Regional Occupation List (ROL). This visa category enables skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia when sponsored by an approved regional employer. The Subclass 494 pathway for this occupation does not operate as a points-tested visa. Instead, it requires sponsorship from a regional employer who must meet Department of Home Affairs criteria. Applicants must obtain a positive skill assessment from an appropriate assessing body before visa application. For Chief Executive or Managing Director positions, skill assessment is typically conducted by the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) or equivalent recognised authority. Applicants must demonstrate relevant qualifications, work experience, and professional standing in executive management roles. There are no specific IELTS or English language threshold requirements beyond standard visa conditions, though employers may impose additional workplace requirements. Sponsorship must be from a genuine regional employer, and the position offered must align with assessed skills and qualifications. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.2026-06-26T10:18:49.818Z
Content last generated: 2026-06-26
Key requirements
High-level criteria for Subclass 494. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at application
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment in the nominated occupation
- Three years of relevant work experience in the nominated occupation
- Nominated by an approved regional employer in a designated regional area
- Health and character requirements