Australia Sports Visas

Temporary Activity (Short-Stay Specialist – subclass 400) Visa

  • Purpose: For short-term activities, including organized sports for remuneration or prize money.
  • Duration: Up to 6 months.
  • Eligibility:
    • Offer of work or invitation lasting less than 6 months.
    • Relevant skills, knowledge, or experience.
    • Intent to leave Australia after the activity.
    • Financial means to support themselves and accompanying family.
    • Meet health and character requirements.
  • Application: Must be submitted from outside Australia; cannot be extended.

Temporary Activity (subclass 408) Visa

This visa has multiple subtypes catering to different sporting activities:

  1. Australian Government-Endorsed Events
    • Purpose: For participants in government-endorsed events (e.g., FIFA Women’s World Cup).
    • Duration: Duration of the event, up to a maximum of 4 years.
    • Eligibility:
      • Written endorsement from the event’s organizing body.
      • Sufficient funds to support oneself.
      • Meet health and character requirements.
      • Health insurance coverage.
    • Application: Can be applied from inside or outside Australia.
  2. Sporting Activities
    • Purpose: For coaches, players, trainers, or adjudicators invited to work with an Australian sports team or undergo training.
    • Duration: Up to 2 years.
    • Eligibility:
      • Written endorsement from a supporter or sponsor.
      • Prove high-level competition or potential for it as a trainee.
      • Established reputation as an elite player, instructor, or coach.
      • Meet health and character requirements.
      • Health insurance coverage.
    • Application: Must have a sponsor if applying from inside Australia or intending to stay longer than 3 months.
  3. Other Social and Cultural Activity (Invited Participant)
    • Purpose: For participants in community-based events, including some sports events.
    • Duration: Up to 3 months.
    • Eligibility:
      • Written endorsement from a supporter or sponsor.
      • Sufficient funds to support oneself.
      • Meet health and character requirements.
      • Health insurance coverage.
    • Application: Must have a sponsor if applying from inside Australia.

Amateur Visits and Sports Tours

  • Visitor Visa (subclass 600): For strictly amateur sports activities.
  • eVisitor Visa (subclass 651): Available for eligible individuals from certain countries, usually free.
  • Electronic Travel Authority Visa (subclass 601): For short-term travel for eligible passport holders.
  • Eligibility: Must meet health and character requirements and have sufficient funds for support and departure.

Summary

Choosing the right visa depends on the nature and duration of your planned sporting activities, your status (professional or amateur), and whether you have an endorsement or sponsorship. Make sure to verify all requirements and conditions before applying to ensure a smooth process.