Temporary Work (Short Stay Activity)
Subclass 400 Visa
The Temporary Work (subclass 400) visa is a temporary visa that enables international skilled workers to come to Australia and undertake highly specialised paid work.
The work must be short-term, highly specialised, non-ongoing work and in limited circumstances can be used to participate in activities or work relating to Australia’s interests.
This visa is commonly used by businesses that require people in Australia that possess specialised skills that are not available in Australia such as commissioning a specialised piece of equipment that has been imported from overseas.
Eligibility for A Temporary Work (Short Stay Activity) Visa
Have highly specialised skills, knowledge or experience
You can apply for a Subclass 400 visa if you have specialised skills, knowledge or experience that:
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can assist Australian business
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can’t reasonably be found in the Australian labour market
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will be non-ongoing
Non-ongoing work means work that is likely to be completed within 6 months or less, and you do not expect or arrange to stay in Australia after this time for any reason related to that work.
Specialised Work Arrangements in Australia
You must demonstrate that you have work in Australia that you are coming to complete that is of a specialised nature.
Health, Character & Support
All applicants must demonstrate that they meet the Australian health requirement, meet the Australian character requirement and have enough means to support themselves and any dependent family members whilst in Australia.
Common Use Examples for a Temporary Work (Short Stay Activity) Visa
Subclass 400 Visa
01
Commission Specialised Equipment
A business has purchased specialised equipment from overseas that does not exist in Australia and requires specialised technicians/engineers to commission the equipment in Australia.
02
Undertake Specialised Consulting
A business is undertaking a project that requires short-term specialised on-site consulting that is not available in Australia.
03
Assist in Disaster Recovery/National Interests
A manufacturing business has been significantly impacted by a natural disaster and invites 5 highly skilled workers to assist with the large workload for 3 months during a peak period.
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a subclass 400 visa take? The average processing time for a subclass 400 visa is approximately one month, however processing times often change for a number of factors.
How much money do you need in your bank account to go to Australia? This question varies depending on the visa you are applying for, generally speaking you should demonstrate you have enough funds to support yourself whilst in Australia.
How do I get a subclass 400 visa? A subclass 400 visa is designed for people that need to come to Australia to undertake specialised short-term work. You normally need to be invited by a business or other organisation.
Are there specific documents that need to be submitted based on my intended work in Australia? In most cases you will need a formal letter of invitation or employment contract showing the intended work and activities you are undertaking in Australia.
How do I obtain certified copies of the required documents? You should seek to have your documents certified by a person authorised in your country of residence to witness and certify documents.
What happens after I lodge my application? After your application has been lodged, the Department will assess your application and contact you (or your migration agent/immigration lawyer) regarding any further information that is required and whether your visa has been granted or refused.
What will help me process my application faster? A thoroughly prepared, and complete application is critical to a quicker outcome and successful visa application. This can be achieved by engaging an experienced immigration lawyer & registered migration agent.
How long will the Subclass 400 visa be valid? The subclass 400 visa is generally granted for a period of three months. However, up to six months may be considered by the Department if a strong business case can be provided which explains the necessity for more time.