Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa
Short-term visa for specialists with skills unavailable in Australia. Up to 6 months for specialised work or promotional activities.
The Subclass 400 visa allows skilled professionals to work temporarily in Australia when they possess specialised expertise that cannot be readily sourced locally. It accommodates both technical specialists assisting Australian businesses and international performers engaged in promotional activities for overseas productions.
Applicants must demonstrate their specialised skill set, secure Australian employer or organisation support, and meet health, character and financial requirements. The visa is specifically designed for brief assignments — applicants must show they intend only temporary residence in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
- Possess specialised skills or knowledge unavailable in Australia
- Have support from an Australian employer or organisation
- Demonstrate how you will assist the Australian business
- Demonstrate sufficient financial support for your stay
- Hold adequate health insurance
- Meet Australian health examination requirements
- Meet character requirements
- Satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement
- Intend only temporary residence in Australia
- Entertainment work excluded unless directing/producing offshore production
- Promotional activities (including red carpet events) permitted
Application Process
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Verify your specialised skills are not readily available in Australia and secure support from an Australian employer or organisation.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather evidence of skills, employer support, health insurance, financial capacity and character documents.
Step 3: Lodge Application
Submit the visa application with full supporting documentation. Demonstrate Genuine Temporary Entrant intent.
Costs & Processing Time
Processing Time
Visa granted for up to 6 months. Processing times vary by case complexity and applicant circumstances.
Entertainment Industry Alternative
Performers and entertainers should also consider the Subclass 408 visa. Technical roles such as camera operator, make-up artist and sound technician may instead qualify under Subclass 482 (SID).
GTE Evidence is Key
You must clearly demonstrate that you intend only temporary residence in Australia. Strong evidence of ties to your home country strengthens your application.
About the Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa
Short-term visa for specialists with skills unavailable in Australia. Up to 6 months for specialised work or promotional activities.
Articles for this visa are coming soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum duration of a Subclass 400 visa?
This visa may be granted for up to 6 months for a single stay.
Which visa is better for entertainers performing in Australia?
The Subclass 408 visa is generally more suitable for performers. Technical entertainment roles (camera, sound, make-up) may also qualify under Subclass 482.
What work is excluded under this visa?
Entertainment industry work is excluded unless you are directing, producing or performing in a production not shown in Australia, or engaging in promotional activities for overseas events.
Can I extend or renew a Subclass 400 visa?
The 400 is designed for short-term stays. Multiple 400 grants in succession are generally not approved — applicants seeking longer engagements should consider Subclass 482 or other options.
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