Temporary Activity Visa – Subclass 408

Work, participate, and contribute in Australia with the Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408).

Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408): Work, Participate, and Contribute in Australia

The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity Visa allows individuals to travel to Australia for specific short-term activities such as cultural exchange, sporting participation, research, religious work, entertainment, or government-endorsed events like COVID-19 Pandemic Event stream.

The Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) provides opportunities for skilled individuals to live, work, or participate in approved events and activities in Australia for a temporary period. This visa offers flexibility across multiple streams, making it suitable for cultural exchange, short-term work, and event-based contributions.

Benefits

Stay in Australia for up to 2 years (depending on the stream).

Work or participate in eligible short-term activities, cultural or sporting events.

Bring eligible family members with you.

Multiple entry option during the visa validity period.

COVID-19 Pandemic Event stream offers temporary stay and work rights for critical sectors.

Streams of Subclass 408 Visa

Entertainment Activities

For individuals working in the entertainment industry—actors, musicians, film crew, etc.—to participate in productions or events.

Validity: Usually up to 2 years.

Sporting Activities

For professional sportspeople or coaches to train, compete, or promote their sport in Australia.

Validity: Up to 2 years.

Religious Work

For religious workers to serve full-time in a religious institution in Australia.

Validity: Up to 2 years.

Research Activities

For academics or specialists invited to participate in collaborative research projects.

Validity: Up to 2 years.

Special Program

For cultural enrichment, community benefits, or youth exchange arrangements approved by the Australian government.

Validity: Up to 12 months (may vary).

Australian Government-Endorsed Events

For individuals invited to participate in significant government-endorsed events. Includes COVID-19 Pandemic Event stream.

Validity: Up to 12 months (or longer depending on event).

Eligibility & Conditions

Hold a valid passport from an eligible country.

Must be invited, supported, or sponsored by an eligible Australian organization or government agency.

Meet health and character requirements.

Adequate financial capacity to support your stay.

Health insurance required for the duration of your stay.

You can include family members in your application (conditions apply).

Application Process

Secure an invitation, sponsorship, or support from an eligible organization or agency.

Create an ImmiAccount and select the relevant Subclass 408 stream.

Complete the application form and upload documents (passport, sponsorship/endorsement, health & character certificates, proof of funds).

Pay the visa fee (AUD 405 for most streams; Pandemic Event stream is fee-free).

Submit the application and attend biometrics or medical checks if required.

Track application progress via ImmiAccount until visa outcome is received.

FAQs

How long can I stay on a Subclass 408 visa?

The duration depends on the stream. Most streams allow up to 2 years, while Government-endorsed and Pandemic Event streams may allow shorter or longer stays depending on the situation.

Can I work on a 408 visa?

Yes, you can work, but only in line with the purpose and conditions of your visa stream. For example, entertainment work, sporting participation, or research roles.

Can I include my family in the application?

Yes, you may include eligible family members, but they must meet health and character requirements.

Is the 408 visa COVID-19 Pandemic Event stream still available?

As of 2024, it is being phased out, but certain applicants in critical sectors may still be eligible under government instructions.