Meat Inspector — 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 Meat Inspector 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.
Meat Inspector × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
Meat Inspector (ANZSCO 311312) is eligible for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa, supporting regional abattoirs and food processing employers in sponsoring skilled meat inspectors to maintain food safety standards in areas where local talent is scarce. The Subclass 494 is not points-tested. Applicants must receive a genuine employment offer from an approved regional employer and obtain a positive skills assessment confirming their food safety inspection qualifications and experience. Health, character, and English language requirements apply. Visa holders must remain employed with the sponsoring regional employer for the visa's duration. After three years of compliant regional employment, holders are eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa. Government fees start at approximately $4,770 plus the Skilling Australians Fund levy payable by the employer. 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 Meat Inspector
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 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.
- 491Details →Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
Five-year provisional visa for workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
State nominations for Meat Inspector
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.