Temporary Work Visa
Sub Class 400
The Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa allows highly skilled professionals to travel to Australia for short-term, non-ongoing work or specialist projects that require their unique expertise.
It is designed for applicants who
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Have specialized skills, knowledge, or experience not easily found in Australia.
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Are coming for short-term work (usually up to 3 months, in limited cases up to 6 months)
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Will not work in a role that could be filled by an Australian citizen or permanent resident
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Are invited or supported by an Australian organisation for a specific project or purpose
This visa must be applied for outside Australia before travelling.
Main Requirements
Have specialist skills, experience, or knowledge required by an Australian organisation
Provide an invitation letter, employment contract, or evidence of project involvement
Have adequate funds to support yourself and any dependents during your stay
Demonstrate that your role is short-term and non-ongoing
Hold adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay
Meet health and character requirements
Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on the urgency and nature of the project. Applications can be prioritised if there is strong evidence of time sensitivity or business necessity.
Standard processing:
1 – 3 weeks
Urgent business travel:
Often within a few working days
Costs & Fees
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Main applicant (online application)
The application fee starts from AUD 430.
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Additional applicant (18+ years)
The fee starts from AUD 430 per person.
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Additional applicant (under 18)
The fee starts from AUD 110 per child.
Applicants are also responsible for any medical examinations, biometrics, or police checks if required
Key Benefits
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Quick processing for urgent, short-term projects
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No sponsorship process required (unlike the 482 visa)
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Allows multiple entries if specified in the visa grant
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Suitable for short-term consulting, repair, training, or installation work
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Option to include dependent family members in the same application
Process
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Obtain an invitation or contract from the Australian host organisation.
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Prepare required documents – passport, invitation letter, employment proof, funds, and insurance evidence.
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Submit the visa application online via ImmiAccount.
Complete health and character checks if requested. -
Wait for visa decision notification (usually 1–3 weeks).
Travel to Australia once the visa is granted.
Common Scenarios & Q&A
01. How long can I stay in Australia on this visa?
Most 400 visas allow stays of up to 3 months, with extensions up to 6 months granted only in exceptional circumstances.
02. Can I work for more than one employer?
No. You can only work for the business or organisation listed in your visa grant letter.
03. Can I apply for another visa while in Australia?
Yes, it depends what type visa you apply for.
04. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. Immediate family members can be included in your application, but they cannot work in Australia.
05. Do I need health insurance?
Yes. You must hold adequate health coverage for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.
Skills Assessment
