Australia offers a range of work visas for skilled professionals, and one of the most suitable options for short-term, highly specialized work is the Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa – Subclass 400. If you’re invited by an Australian business or organisation to carry out short-term work requiring specific skills or knowledge, this visa might be the perfect fit.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Subclass 400 Visa — from who it’s for to how to apply.
Also read about- Student Visa Australian (Subclass 500)
What is the Subclass 400 Temporary Work Visa?
The Subclass 400 visa is a temporary visa that allows overseas professionals to work in Australia short-term (usually up to 3 months, extendable to 6 months in limited cases). This visa is commonly used for:
- Specialists working on specific projects
- Professionals providing training or consultation
- Experts in technical fields
- Engineers, technicians, and IT professionals
It’s not intended for ongoing or long-term work or employment.
Who Can Apply for Subclass 400 Visa?
To be eligible for the 400 visa, you must:
- Be invited or sponsored by an Australian business
- Possess highly specialised skills or knowledge
- Prove that your role is short-term and cannot be filled by a local
- Have no intention to stay long-term in Australia
- Meet health and character requirements
This visa is ideal for engineers, corporate trainers, consultants, and professionals in short-term project roles.
Key Features of the Subclass 400 Visa
- Duration: 3 months (in most cases), up to 6 months if strongly justified
- Processing Time: Usually 14–40 days depending on application volume
- No sponsorship needed (unless applying under the Domestic Worker stream)
- No pathway to permanent residency
- Family inclusion: You can include dependents in your application
Note: You must apply while outside Australia, and you cannot extend this visa once issued.
Documents Required for Subclass 400 Visa
Here’s a general checklist:
- A valid passport
- Proof of employment or invitation letter from the Australian business
- Resume/CV showcasing your specialised skills
- Evidence of qualifications, certifications, or work experience
- Health insurance covering your stay
- Police clearance (if required)
- Proof of funds or income
How to Apply for the Subclass 400 Visa
- Check your eligibility on the Department of Home Affairs website
- Gather required documents
- Create an ImmiAccount
- Complete the online application form for Subclass 400
- Upload documents and pay the visa fee (AUD $405 approx)
- Await a decision — the department may contact you for further information
Once approved, you’ll be granted a visa with specified start and end dates.
Why Choose the Subclass 400 Visa?
If you’re a skilled professional or technical expert invited to Australia for a short-term contract, emergency work, or specialised consulting, the Subclass 400 Visa offers:
- Fast processing
- No long-term commitment
- Simple requirements compared to other work visas
- A smooth way to enter Australia for high-value, time-limited work
It’s an excellent solution for businesses needing temporary expertise and for workers seeking international exposure.
Final Thoughts – Make Your Short-Term Australian Work Opportunity Happen
The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa Subclass 400 is your gateway to working in Australia legally and efficiently for a short period. Whether it’s a three-month engineering project or consulting assignment, this visa is designed for experts who deliver immediate value.
If you’re ready to explore opportunities, now is the time to start your application or consult with a registered migration agent to ensure a successful outcome.
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