Regional Certifying Bodies
Regional Certifying Bodies RCBs provide independent advice to the Department of Home Affairs on employer nominations under regional employer sponsored visa programs. Their role is to confirm that the nominated position is genuine and required in the regional labour market.
RCBs do not grant visas. They assess employer nominations and provide recommendations that are mandatory before a nomination can proceed.
An organisation approved by the Minister for Home Affairs to perform this function is referred to as a Regional Certifying Body.
For example, Immigration SA is the RCB for South Australia and provides advice for nominations under the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa Subclass 494.
When Is RCB Advice Required
RCB advice is required before an employer nomination can be approved for the Subclass 494 visa. Without a positive assessment from the relevant RCB, the nomination cannot proceed.
The advice focuses on whether the role is genuine, ongoing, and necessary for the business in a regional area.
What Employers Must Demonstrate
Genuine Need for the Position
Employers must clearly explain why the nominated position is required for their business. This includes:
• Why part time or casual staff are not suitable
• Whether the position is newly created or replacing a previous role
• How the role supports business operations and growth
Evidence may include:
• Business Activity Statements or financial statements
• Evidence of increased workload or business expansion
• Contracts, invoices, or additional business agreements
• Rosters or payroll records showing existing staff workload
If the role is newly created, the employer must justify why the position is required now.
Position Cannot Be Filled Locally
Employers must demonstrate genuine efforts to recruit Australian citizens or permanent residents before seeking overseas workers.
This includes evidence of:
• Job advertisements placed within the last four months
• Advertising duration of at least two weeks
• Platforms used such as JobSearch, Seek, Indeed, or industry specific channels
• Number of applications received and reasons candidates were unsuitable
If exemptions apply, supporting documentation must be provided.
Employment Terms and Conditions
The nominated position must offer terms and conditions that are consistent with Australian workplace standards.
Employers must provide:
• An employment contract on company letterhead
• Position title matching the nominated occupation
• Duties consistent with the ANZSCO occupation
• Salary aligned with market rates and minimum thresholds
• Normal working hours and conditions
If Australians are employed in similar roles, evidence must show comparable pay and conditions.
Required Employment Contract Details
The employment contract must:
• Be signed and dated by both parties
• State position title, duties, and location
• Specify salary, superannuation, and allowances
• Confirm full time employment for at least five years
• Comply with Fair Work and National Employment Standards
Unsigned or incomplete contracts may result in refusal.
Related Information
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa Subclass 494
• Regional Certifying Bodies comparison
• 494 visa pathway to permanent residency
• Work experience requirements
How Visa Aid Can Help
Visa Aid assists employers with:
• Preparing RCB submissions
• Assessing genuine position requirements
• Reviewing recruitment evidence
• Structuring compliant employment contracts
• Managing nomination and visa applications
Our team ensures your application meets regional requirements and Home Affairs expectations.
