Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408)

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Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408)

408 Visa

Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) – Work in Australia for Specialised Short-Term Activities

  • Work in Australia for short-term activities in specific industries.
  • Multiple streams available, including entertainment, research, sporting activities, and religious work.
  • Stay for up to 4 years, depending on the stream.

What is the Temporary Activity Visa 408?

The Temporary Activity Visa 408 allows individuals to work in Australia for a short period in fields such as sports, entertainment, research and religious work.

This visa is suitable for individuals who:

  • Participate in short-term work or activities that benefit Australia.
  • Need a temporary work visa but do not qualify for other employer-sponsored visas.

Key Features & Benefits

Holders of the Temporary Activity Visa 408 can:

  • Work in Australia for up to 4 years, depending on the stream.
  • Stay in Australia legally to continue critical work.
  • Travel freely in and out of Australia while the visa is valid.
  • Include family members (such as a spouse or dependent children) in the application.
  • Avoid employer sponsorship requirements (for some streams).

This visa provides flexibility for professionals, researchers, and essential workers needing temporary work rights in Australia.

Key Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408), applicants must:

1. Choose the Appropriate Stream

Each stream has specific eligibility criteria, but all applicants must:

  • Have a valid invitation, job offer, or sponsorship.
  • Work in a field covered by an approved 408 visa stream.

2. Meet Work & Experience Requirements

  • Applicants must have skills and experience relevant to their visa stream.
  • If applying under the Research Stream, they must have a formal research invitation.
  • Entertainment, sporting, and religious workers must provide proof of experience and contracts.

3. Secure Sponsorship (for Some Streams)

  • Sponsorship is required for some streams (e.g., entertainment and sports).
  • Religious and government-endorsed event workers must have an Australian host organisation.

4. Meet Health & Character Requirements

  • Applicants must pass Australian health and character checks, including police clearances.

5. Provide Proof of Financial Stability

  • Applicants must show they can support themselves financially during their stay.

Temporary Activity Visa 408 Application Process

The Subclass 408 visa application follows these steps:

  1. Determine Eligibility & Stream – Select the appropriate visa stream based on your work or activity.
  2. Obtain a Sponsorship or Invitation – Secure a job offer, invitation, or sponsorship if required.
  3. Gather Required Documents – Prepare documents, such as work contracts, qualifications, and financial statements.
  4. Lodge Your Visa Application – Submit the Subclass 408 visa application online.
  5. Complete Health & Character Checks – Provide medical and police clearance certificates if required.
  6. Receive Your Visa Grant – Once approved, you can legally work in Australia under the Temporary Activity Visa 408.

Why Choose Jade Immigration Lawyers?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we specialise in Temporary Activity Visa 408 applications, offering:

  • Expert advice on selecting the right visa stream.
  • Comprehensive visa application support.
  • Legal assistance for visa refusals and complex cases.

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) immigration services and processes. For further support, contact Jade Immigration Lawyers.

How long can I stay in Australia on a 408 visa?

The visa duration depends on the stream:

  • Entertainment & Sporting Streams: Typically up to 2 years.
  • Religious & Research Streams: Up to 4 years.
Can I work full-time on a 408 visa?

Yes, visa holders can work full-time as long as it aligns with their visa stream requirements.

Can I apply for permanent residency after my 408 visa?

 

The 408 visa does not provide a direct PR pathway. However, eligible visa holders may transition to other skilled migration visas, such as:

  • Subclass 482 (Skills In Demand Visa)
  • Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme Visa)
  • Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)
Do I need a sponsor to apply for a 408 visa?

It depends on the stream:

  • Sponsorship is required for entertainment, sports, religious, and research streams.
Can I include my family members in my 408 visa application?

Yes, spouses and dependent children can be included, but they may have work or study restrictions.

Can I travel outside Australia on a 408 visa?

Yes, if granted multiple entry, you can travel in and out of Australia during your visa validity.