Designated Area Migration Agreement

Regional employer sponsorship with special concessions - no standard list needed

Best for: Applicants whose occupation is not on the standard 482/494 lists, or who don't meet standard English/salary thresholds

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Points test

This visa is not points-tested. Eligibility depends on the specific requirements for the subclass rather than a points score.

Key facts at a glance

Visa type

Provisional

Validity

2-5 years (depends on 482 or 494 stream used)

Work rights

With sponsoring employer in designated regional area only

Pathway to PR

Via 482 to 186 ENS, or 494 to 191 (depends on agreement terms)

Application fee

AUD $3,210-$4,910 (same as underlying 482/494)

Processing time

3-12 months (Labour Agreement negotiation adds time)

Age limit

Up to 55 (some DAMAs) vs standard 45 cap

Occupation lists

Occupations NOT on standard lists - DAMA unlocks extra occupations

Employer sponsorship

Required

State nomination

Not required

Strengths

Opens up occupations not available on any standard visa list
Lower English language requirements than standard 482
Lower salary threshold concessions in some agreements
Age concession - some DAMAs allow up to 55 (vs standard 45)

Things to weigh up

Employer must have an active Labour Agreement with Home Affairs
Only available in specific designated regional areas (NT, SA, QLD, VIC etc.)
More complex and slower than standard 482 - Labour Agreement negotiation required
Not all employers in regional areas have or can get a DAMA

Explore further

Compare visas side by side

General information only, not personal migration advice. Fees, points settings, occupation lists and eligibility are set by the Australian Government and change regularly; always confirm current details with the Department of Home Affairs. Afrovo is QEAC-certified and coordinates formal visa lodgement with MARA-partnered registered migration agents.