Project Builder — 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 Project Builder for migration purposes is handled by: VETASSESS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Project Builder × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
Project Builder (ANZSCO 133112) qualifies for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa through inclusion on the Regional Occupation List (ROL), enabling regional employer-sponsored migration under this five-year provisional visa. The Subclass 494 is not points-tested; eligibility is established through nomination by an approved regional employer. Applicants must secure sponsorship from a regional employer in a designated regional area who can demonstrate genuine need for a Project Builder and has completed labour market testing. A positive skills assessment is mandatory under the Direct Entry pathway, typically from the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM) or a relevant construction body. The assessment evaluates qualifications and demonstrated experience in managing residential or commercial building projects. At least three years of relevant experience is generally required. Key requirements include being under 45 years of age, holding competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent), a valid employer nomination confirming the position is in a designated regional area, and standard health and character clearances. After three years of regional employment and meeting the income threshold, holders may apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 pathway. Fees start from approximately $4,770. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.
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
Other visa pathways for Project Builder
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 491Details →Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
Five-year provisional visa for workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
State nominations for Project Builder
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.