For experts and specialists invited to Australia for short-term, highly specialized work, the Temporary Work (Short-Stay Specialist) visa (Subclass 400) is the golden ticket. Whether you’re a researcher, technician, coach or performer, this visa lets you bring your expertise Down Under for up to three months—perfect for one-off projects or seasonal assignments.
What Is the Temporary Work (Short-Stay Specialist) Visa?
The Subclass 400 visa allows you to undertake short-term, specialized work in Australia. It’s ideal when:
- You’ve been contracted to deliver workshops, training or expert advice
- You need to install, demonstrate or service equipment
- You’re performing at an event, competition or exhibition
Unlike the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (Subclass 482), the 400 visa doesn’t require labour market testing or an ongoing employer sponsorship beyond your short stay. For more on long-term skill streams, see our guide to Employer-Sponsored Visas.
Requirements
Before you apply, make sure you meet all of the following core requirements:
- Genuine Short-Term Specialist Role
Your assignment must be highly specialized, non-ongoing, and limited to a maximum of three months (six months in exceptional cases). Common tasks include expert installations, equipment servicing, tailored training or one-off creative performances. - Formal Invitation or Contract
You need a detailed invitation or contract from an Australian host, outlining:- Scope and nature of work
- Exact duration of your stay
- Payment terms or expense reimbursements
- Health and Character Checks
- Health: Complete any required medical examinations (especially if you’ll work in childcare, healthcare or handle food)
- Character: Provide police certificates from all countries you’ve lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years.
- Financial Capacity
Demonstrate you can support yourself (and any dependants) during your stay—or show that your sponsor will cover living expenses. - Clean Compliance History
You must have no outstanding government debts in Australia and no history of visa breaches.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Subclass 400 visa, you must meet these core requirements:
- Genuine Specialist Role
Your work must be highly specialized and non-ongoing—think expert demonstration, short-term training or equipment installation. - Invitation or Contract
You need a formal invitation or contract from an Australian host organization detailing:- Scope of work
- Duration (up to 3 months, or 6 months in exceptional cases)
- Payment or reimbursement arrangements
- Health & Character
Standard health checks and police clearances apply. See our Work Visa Eligibility Checklist for details. - Financial Capacity
Proof that you can support yourself (and any family members) during your stay, or that your sponsor will cover your living costs. - No Unfavorable Record
You must not have outstanding debts to the Australian Government, or be in breach of a previous visa condition.
Also Check: Australia Tourist Visa Process (Subclass 600) 2025: Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
Fees & Processing Times
| Item | Cost (AUD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 400 base application | 310 | ~14 days |
| Each family member (over 18) | 310 | |
| Each child (under 18) | 155 | |
| Health examinations | Variable | 4–6 weeks |
| Police certificates | Variable | 2–4 weeks |
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Gather Documents
- Signed contract or invitation letter
- Evidence of your specialist skills (qualifications, publications, project summaries)
- Health examination and police certificates (if required)
- Lodge Online via ImmiAccount
- Create or sign in to your ImmiAccount
- Select “Temporary Work (Subclass 400)” and complete the form
- Pay the Visa Fee
- Current base fee: AUD 310
- Additional applicant fee (if family members apply):
- Await Decision
- Most straightforward applications are processed within two weeks.
- Urgent requests (for unforeseen events) may be expedited—contact your nearest Australian Mission for support.
- Receive Visa Grant Notification
- Once approved, you’ll receive your grant letter with visa conditions, including work scope and validity period.
Expert Tips for a Smooth Application
- Detail Your Specialist Work
Clearly outline how your skills differ from local capabilities—quantify past project outcomes where possible. - Secure Early Health Checks
If your occupation triggers mandatory medicals (e.g., in food handling or childcare), book these before you apply to avoid delays. - Use a Local Sponsor
Partnering with an Australian company or university can strengthen your case—see our advice on Finding a Sponsor. - Monitor Your ImmiAccount
Enable email and SMS alerts so you don’t miss any requests for additional information.
FAQs
Q: Can I extend my Short-Stay Specialist visa?
Generally no—but in exceptional circumstances (e.g., project delays), you can apply for a new Subclass 400 or another appropriate visa.
Q: Am I allowed to study on this visa?
No. The Subclass 400 visa strictly prohibits study or training beyond incidental, work-related instruction.
Q: What happens if my project runs over 3 months?
You must apply for a new visa before your current one expires. Overstaying can affect future visa eligibility.
Q: Can I bring my family?
Family members can apply as secondary visa holders, but they cannot work unless separately authorized.