Hospitality, Retail and Service Managers nec — 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 Hospitality, Retail and Service Managers nec 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.
Hospitality, Retail and Service Managers nec × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
Hospitality, Retail and Service Managers not elsewhere classified (ANZSCO 149999) are listed on the Combined Skilled Occupation List (CSOL) and eligible for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa. This five-year provisional employer-sponsored visa requires holders to live, work, and study exclusively in a designated regional area of Australia. The visa is not points-tested; eligibility hinges on a valid nomination from an approved regional employer and a positive skills assessment from VETASSESS, which evaluates qualifications and professional experience in hospitality, retail or service management against Australian standards. Applicants must be under 45 at application, hold Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent), and have at least three years of full-time relevant work experience. The indicative application fee is from AUD 4,770, with processing typically 9 to 18 months. Holders who satisfy the regional residence and minimum income requirements for three years may subsequently apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa. 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