Retail Manager (General) — 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 Retail Manager (General) 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.
Retail Manager (General) × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
Retail Manager (General) (ANZSCO 142111) qualifies for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa as it appears on the Regional Occupation List (ROL). This visa enables regional retail businesses to sponsor skilled managers where suitable local candidates are unavailable. The Subclass 494 is not points-tested. Applicants must be sponsored by an approved regional employer who has demonstrated genuine need for the position and provided evidence of unsuccessful local recruitment. The employer must hold or obtain standard business sponsorship approval. A skills assessment from the Australian Retailers Association or equivalent body is required, verifying competency in retail management including staff supervision, financial management, merchandising, and customer service leadership. Applicants must demonstrate relevant retail management experience, meet English language requirements, and satisfy health and character checks. Holders must reside and work in a designated regional area for the duration of the visa. The Subclass 494 provisional visa is valid for five years. After three years of eligible regional employment, holders may apply for permanent residency through Subclass 191. Government fees are approximately AUD 5,765. 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