The timeline for obtaining a 494 visa, or Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa, can vary based on several factors. Skills assessment can take from 10 days to several months, depending on the assessing authority. For the Employer Sponsored Stream, applicants must meet criteria such as being under 45, having a valid skills assessment, and three years of relevant experience. If applying through the Labour Agreement Stream, the labour agreement processing time can further extend the duration, often taking several months for negotiation and approval between employers and the Australian government. For precise timelines, consult the Department of Home Affairs website.