Tree Worker — 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 Tree Worker 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.
Tree Worker × Subclass 494 — pathway overview
Tree Worker (ANZSCO 362512) is eligible for the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa. Listed on the Combined Skilled Occupation List (CSOL), it is eligible for employer-sponsored skilled migration in designated regional areas under the Subclass 494 visa. Tree Workers perform maintenance and removal tasks on trees including felling, pruning, chipping, and stump grinding, working at height and operating specialised equipment to ensure safety and clearance compliance. The visa is not points-tested. An approved regional sponsor must nominate the position and demonstrate genuine efforts to source a suitably qualified Australian worker before sponsoring an overseas candidate. Skills assessment by VETASSESS is required, covering qualifications and work experience against Australian standards. English proficiency and satisfactory health and character outcomes are also required. Processing generally takes three to nine months once a valid nomination and application are lodged. The Subclass 494 application fee is approximately AUD 4,115. After three years of residence and employment in a designated regional area and meeting income requirements, holders may apply for the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) 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