Short Stay Activity (400 Visa)
The 400 visa is designed for individuals who wish to travel to Australia for short-term, highly specialised, non-ongoing work, or certain activities related to Australia’s interests.
Features
- Short-term, highly specialised, non-ongoing work
- Participation in activities related to Australia’s interests
- Typically up to 3 months stay, extendable to 6 months with a strong business case
Eligibility
- Be invited or supported by the organisation you will be working for
- Possess specialist skills, knowledge, or experience needed in Australia
Length of Stay
- Generally up to 3 months
- Possible extension to 6 months in special cases
Cost
- Starts from AUD 415(except in limited circumstances)
Processing Time
- 75% of applications processed in 12 days
- 90% of applications processed in 25 days
Financial Requirements
Applicants must be able to support themselves and any accompanying family members while in Australia. Evidence of sufficient funds may be required.
About the Visa
The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400) allows you to:
- Undertake short-term, highly specialised, non-ongoing work
- Participate in activities related to Australia’s interests, where applicable
- Apply with enough time for processing before travel
- Note: As of November 2016, the Invited Participant stream is no longer included
What This Visa Allows
- Stay up to 3 months (or up to 6 months in special cases)
- Perform specified short-term, specialised work
- Participate in activities related to Australia’s interests
- Bring family members to Australia (they may not work)
- Combine a short holiday with your work if it is secondary to your work purpose
Restrictions
- Restrictions on the type of work or activities
- Prohibitions on courses of study, workplace training, or working in entertainment
- Possible "No Further Stay" condition
Location Requirement
You and any family members must be outside Australia when applying and when a decision is made.
Visa Duration
- Typically granted for up to 3 months.
- Possible extension to 6 months in special cases.
- You must arrive in Australia within 6 months of the visa being granted, or within a shorter period if specified.
Family Members
If you wish to bring family members, they must be included in your application and meet relevant criteria. They must apply for their own visa if they:
- Are not included in your application
- Wish to work or study towards a formal qualification
Obligations
Applicants and family members must comply with visa conditions and Australian laws. If you wish to change activities or work for a different organisation, a new visa application is required.
Support from an Australian Organisation
Evidence from an Australian organisation is required, including:
- Letter of invitation, job offer, or employment contract
- Details of your role, duties, and duration of work
- Reason why your role is needed in Australia
- Compliance with workplace standards
Domestic Workers
Domestic workers accompanying their employers on business or tourism trips should apply for a subclass 600 visa. Subclass 400 applications for domestic workers will be processed under subclass 400 requirements.
Six-Month 400 Visa
The Department will assess various factors, such as:
- Impact of the project on the community
- Employment opportunities for Australians
- Evidence of skills shortages in Australia
- Contractual obligations related to the project
- Efforts made by the employer to hire an Australian for the role
400 Visa FAQs
- What is a 400 visa? A short-stay Temporary Work visa for highly specialised, non-ongoing work, usually for up to 3 months.
- Can I convert a 400 visa to a 482 visa? Yes, you can apply for a 482 visa if you meet the requirements.
- Is the 400 visa a pathway to permanent residency? No, the 400 visa is temporary and is not a pathway to permanent residency.
- Can I bring my family with me on a 400 visa? Yes, but family members must be included in your visa application and meet health and character requirements.