Need the worker now, and the case is not yet ready for permanent nomination?
Start by examining subclass 482.
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482 · 186 · 494 COMPARISON
Choose the route by the job, location and intended outcome—not by a visa number alone.
The three visas serve different purposes: temporary sponsored work, employer-nominated permanent residence and regional sponsorship. The right comparison starts with the employer and position.
482 is usually temporary, 186 is permanent, and 494 is a regional provisional pathway.
That distinction is only the starting point. Occupation, salary, work location, experience, assessment, age, English and the employer’s evidence determine whether a particular stream is available.
Side-by-side comparison
The same employer and worker can produce a different answer under each visa.
Question482186494
Visa outcomeTemporary work visaPermanent residenceFive-year regional provisional visa
Where the job can beAustralia, subject to the nominationNo general geographic restrictionDesignated regional Australia
Main useFill a current skilled roleNominate an eligible worker permanentlyFill a skilled role in regional Australia
ExperienceUsually at least 12 months relevant experienceDepends on stream; Direct Entry usually requires 3 yearsUsually at least 3 years relevant experience
Skills assessmentRequired for specified cases or if requestedDirect Entry usually requires one; TRT differsUsually required unless exempt
AgeNo general age ceilingUsually under 45 unless exemptUsually under 45 unless exempt
Permanent directionMay later support an eligible 186 pathwayAlready permanentMay support a later 191 application after 3 years if eligible
Decision sequence
Ask four questions before selecting a visa.
Is the employer offering a genuine permanent position and does one 186 stream fit?
Examine subclass 186 and identify Direct Entry, TRT or agreement first.
Is the genuine job in designated regional Australia?
Compare subclass 494 with any available 482 or 186 option.
Does the standard occupation or salary framework not fit?
Check whether a genuine Labour Agreement or DAMA route exists; do not assume a concession.
Employer evidence
Business operations, genuine need, organisational structure, work location, market salary, employment terms and recruitment evidence should be tested before a route is chosen.
Applicant evidence
The occupation match, experience, qualifications, English, assessment, registration, age, visa history and regional plans should be mapped to the exact stream.
Popular employer sponsorship questions
Move from a visa name to a workable pathway.
These guides connect the temporary, permanent and regional options. They provide general information, not a conclusion about an individual case.
PATHWAY COMPARISON
482, 186 or 494: which route fits the case?
Compare temporary work, permanent nomination and regional sponsorship before choosing a route.
Read the guide →PATHWAY COMPARISON482, 186 or 494: which visa fits?
Start with the employer, position, location and intended outcome—not the visa number.
Read the guide →OCCUPATION & ASSESSMENTWhich occupation list and skills assessment apply?
Check ANZSCO versions, occupation lists, caveats and assessment settings for 482, 186 and 494.
Read the guide →FOR EMPLOYERSWhat must a sponsoring employer budget and prove?
Review business eligibility, genuine position, salary, SAF levy and ongoing obligations.
Read the guide →PATHWAY COMPARISON
Compare my options