Architect — 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 Architect for migration purposes is handled by: AACA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Architect × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
Architect (ANZSCO 232111) qualifies for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa, with this occupation appearing on lists supporting employer-sponsored regional migration. This visa enables regional architectural firms and construction businesses to sponsor skilled architects. The Subclass 494 is not points-tested. Applicants must be sponsored by an approved regional employer who demonstrates genuine need for an architect and evidence of unsuccessful local recruitment. The employer must hold or obtain standard business sponsorship approval. The Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) conducts skills assessments for Architects, evaluating overseas architectural qualifications and professional experience. State or territory architects registration may also be required to legally practise architecture in Australia. Applicants must demonstrate relevant architectural work experience, meet English language requirements, and satisfy health and character checks. The visa requires holders to live and work in a designated regional area for the visa duration. The Subclass 494 provisional visa is valid for five years. After three years of 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
Other visa pathways for Architect
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 189Details →Skilled Independent visa
Permanent points-tested visa for workers not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state.
- 190Details →Skilled Nominated visa
Permanent visa for workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 485Details →Temporary Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of Australian qualifications.
- 491Details →Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
Five-year provisional visa for workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
State nominations for Architect
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.