Ugandan citizens can apply under the nationality-neutral rules. Applicants must be nominated by an approved sponsor for an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list, normally have at least three years of full-time relevant work experience, obtain a suitable skills assessment unless exempt, be under 45 unless an exemption applies and meet the required English-language standard.

The subclass 494 Employer Sponsored stream allows regional Australian employers to recruit skilled overseas professionals for occupations where suitably skilled Australian workers are unavailable. Visa holders live and work in designated regional Australia.

Benefits
The visa permits residence, work and study in designated regional Australia for five years and unlimited travel while the visa remains valid. Eligible holders can apply for permanent residence after three years. The published main-applicant charge is AUD 6,140, with charges of AUD 3,070 for dependants aged 18 or over and AUD 1,535 for dependants under 18.

Requirements
Applicants need an approved employer nomination, positive skills assessment where required, evidence of at least three years of qualifying work experience, qualifications, English-language results, identity documents and health and character clearances. The nominated position must be located in a designated regional area.

How to apply
Find a qualifying position with an approved regional employer. The employer lodges the nomination, after which the applicant creates or uses an ImmiAccount, obtains the required skills assessment and English evidence, uploads the supporting documents and submits the subclass 494 application with the applicable fee.