Agricultural Research Scientist — 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 Agricultural Research Scientist 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.
Agricultural Research Scientist × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
Agricultural Research Scientists (ANZSCO 234114) are eligible for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa, enabling employer-sponsored migration to designated regional Australia. This occupation appears on the relevant skilled occupation list, allowing regional employers to nominate skilled candidates where local workers are unavailable. The Subclass 494 is not points-tested. Sponsoring employers must operate in a designated regional area, complete labour market testing, and pay market salary rates. The visa is granted for five years with a requirement to live and work in the sponsoring employer's regional location. A skills assessment from the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology (AIAST) is mandatory before nomination, verifying Australian standards for Agricultural Research Scientists, who conduct research into plant and animal biology, soil science, pest management, and sustainable agriculture; roles typically based at universities, research institutes, and agribusiness companies. Competent English applies, equivalent to IELTS 6.0. Applicants must generally be under 45 at time of nomination. Government fees are approximately AUD 3,480. Processing takes four to ten months. After three years of regional residence and employment, holders may apply for permanent residence via the Subclass 191. 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 Agricultural Research Scientist
State nominations for Agricultural Research Scientist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.