Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa
What is the Subclass 400 Visa?
The Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa is a short-term work visa designed for highly skilled professionals required to work in Australia on a temporary basis. This visa allows overseas workers to enter Australia for up to three or six months to undertake work that is specialised and not ongoing.
Purpose of the Subclass 400 Visa
The purpose of the Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa is to allow highly skilled overseas professionals to work in Australia on a short-term, non-ongoing basis. It is designed for individuals who have specialised skills, knowledge, or experience that are not readily available in the Australian workforce. Employers use this visa to bring in international talent for urgent projects, specialised work, or critical short-term assignments that cannot be filled locally.
Who is Eligible for a Subclass 400 Visa?
The Subclass 400 visa is primarily for overseas workers who possess specialised skills, knowledge, or experience that are not readily available in Australia.
Key Eligibility Criteria:
- The applicant must have highly specialised skills that will benefit an Australian business.
- The work must be non-ongoing, meaning it is for a short-term and specific purpose.
- The applicant must demonstrate a genuine need to stay in Australia for three to six months.
- The employer must provide evidence of the necessity of hiring an overseas worker rather than an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Benefits of the Subclass 400 Visa for Employers
Employers across Australia can benefit from this visa when they require highly skilled professionals for short-term critical projects. This visa allows businesses to:
- Access specialised talent for urgent projects.
- Ensure business continuity when local expertise is unavailable.
- Speed up bringing in international professionals for a short-term assignment.
How Long Can a Worker Stay on a 400 Visa?
The Subclass 400 visa is granted for:
- Up to 3 months in most cases.
- Up to 6 months in exceptional cases where the business can justify the need for an extended stay.
How to Apply for a Subclass 400 Visa
Applying for a Subclass 400 visa requires careful planning and supporting documentation from both the employer and the visa applicant.
Steps for Employers:
- Assess the Need for an Overseas Worker – Ensure the position requires a skillset that cannot be sourced locally.
- Prepare Supporting Documents – Provide an employment contract, proof of business operations, and justification for hiring an overseas worker.
- Assist with the Visa Application – Support the applicant in lodging their online visa application through the Department of Home Affairs.
- Await Processing – The standard processing time for this visa varies but is typically 2-4 weeks.
Cost of a Subclass 400 Visa
- Visa application charge: $405 AUD (as of 2025, subject to change)
- Additional charges may apply for family members or fast-tracked processing.
Can Employers Sponsor a Subclass 400 Visa?
Unlike other work visas such as the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, the Subclass 400 does not require formal sponsorship. However, employers must provide sufficient evidence that the position requires a specialised skillset.
Some of our Clients
How can we help you?
Our team of migration experts have years of experience in handling protection applications. We offer:
- Detailed eligibility assessments.
- Assistance in preparing and submitting your application.
- Representation and support throughout the process.
- Advice on your rights and obligations in Australia.
If you need guidance on how to begin your Temporary Skilled Visa application process, contact us today for an initial consultation.
FAQ
No, the Subclass 400 visa cannot be extended. If ongoing work is required, a different visa, such as the Subclass 482 (TSS) visa, should be considered.
Yes, in some cases, a Subclass 400 visa holder may be eligible to apply for a Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa while in Australia.
However, the conditions of the Subclass 400 visa typically include a no further stay condition, which restricts the ability to apply for another visa while in Australia. If your visa does not have this condition, you may be able to lodge a 482 visa application without leaving the country. It is important to seek professional immigration advice from our team to confirm your eligibility.
The Subclass 400 visa is strictly limited to the specific work for which it was granted. Visa holders cannot undertake any other employment outside the approved role and employer.
Yes, but they must apply separately and meet the eligibility criteria.
If a Subclass 400 visa is refused, the applicant may not have appeal rights but can reapply with stronger supporting documentation.
