If you’re a highly skilled professional planning to work in Australia for a short-term project, or a business looking to bring in overseas expertise, the Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa may be the right solution.
This visa is designed for specialists with unique skills, knowledge, or experience that cannot easily be found in the Australian labour market. It allows individuals to work in Australia temporarily to fulfil short-term, highly specialised roles or complete specific projects.
What Is a Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa?
The Subclass 400 Temporary Work visa allows highly skilled individuals to undertake short-term, specialist work in Australia. It can be used by:
- Overseas businesses sending employees to Australia for contractual obligations, company secondments, or work in an Australian branch.
- Australian employers needing short-term help due to staff shortages, peak workloads, or project demands.
While most Subclass 400 visas are granted for up to 3 months, they can be extended to 6 months if a strong business case is provided.
Unlike other temporary work visas, the 400 visa does not require formal sponsorship, but applicants must have a nominated Australian business (or businesses) for which the work will be performed. The visa holder is restricted to the specific work or activity outlined in the application.
Businesses must also demonstrate that the work is highly specialised and that hiring an overseas worker will not negatively affect employment or training opportunities for Australians.
Who Can Apply for a 400 Visa?
The Subclass 400 Temporary Work visa is for highly skilled specialists who need to work in Australia on short-term projects or placements. Applicants must have the skills, knowledge, or experience relevant to the role and be invited by or associated with an Australian business where the work will be performed.
They must demonstrate a genuine temporary intention, proving they plan to leave Australia at the end of their stay. Applicants must also meet health and character requirements and provide evidence of financial capacity. Depending on the situation, family members may be included in the application if eligible.
How Long Does a Subclass 400 Visa Take to Process?
As of October 2025, most 400 visa applications are processed quickly due to their short-term nature. Typically, 50% of applications are processed within 7 days, and 90% within 20 days, provided documentation is complete.
Processing can be faster for urgent cases if strong justification is given. To avoid delays, it’s important to submit accurate documents and evidence of the project, skills, and ties to your home country.
Engaging AVIE can help ensure that your application is complete and compliant, reducing the risk of processing delays or complications.
How Long is a Temporary Work Visa in Australia?
The Subclass 400 visa is strictly short-term, generally granted for up to 3 months, with extensions to 6 months possible if a compelling business case exists.
It allows rapid access to overseas specialists for short-term projects, placements, or secondments. Unlike longer-term visas such as the 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa, the 400 visa is not for ongoing employment, and applicants are restricted to the tasks and activities outlined in their application.
This makes it an ideal solution for businesses needing highly skilled expertise on a temporary basis without long-term employment commitments.
How to Apply for a 400 Temporary Work Visa
Applying for a Subclass 400 visa involves a few clear steps. First, confirm your eligibility and ensure you have an invitation from an Australian business for the short-term project or placement.
Next, gather the required documents, including proof of expertise (CV, qualifications, licences), a project or employer letter detailing the role, and your passport.
Then, apply online via ImmiAccount and pay the government application charge.
Accurate documentation and a detailed description of the work are critical, as the visa is restricted to the specified tasks and activities. AVIE can assist to ensure your application is complete and compliant.
How to Convert a 400 Visa to a 482 Visa
The 400 visa is strictly temporary, but holders may consider applying for a 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa if they meet the eligibility criteria and obtain sponsorship from an Australian employer.
This is not an automatic conversion; you must submit a fresh application for the 482 visa. The transition may involve additional documentation, including labour market testing, nomination by an employer, and evidence of skills and qualifications.
AVIE can guide you through this process, helping to position your application for success and ensuring that your move from a short-term specialist role to a longer-term skilled position in Australia is smooth and compliant.
Common FAQs About the 400 Visa (Subclass 400)
What is the 400 visa in Australia?
The Subclass 400 visa is a short-stay visa allowing highly skilled specialists to work in Australia for non-ongoing projects or placements. It is ideal for short-term assignments, training, or urgent specialist roles, and is generally granted for up to 3 months, with extensions to 6 months in exceptional circumstances.
Can I convert my 400 visa to another visa type?
You cannot automatically convert a 400 visa. To remain in Australia long-term, you must apply for a new visa, such as a 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa, if eligible. AVIE can advise on eligibility, sponsorship requirements, and supporting documentation to facilitate a smooth transition from a short-term specialist role to a longer-term skilled position.
What is a Temporary Work Visa in Australia?
Temporary work visas, such as the 400, allow skilled overseas workers to fill short-term skill gaps in Australia. They vary in duration, eligibility, and sponsorship requirements, with the 400 visa focusing on highly specialised, short-term work, and the 482 visa covering longer-term skilled positions with employer sponsorship.
Get Expert Help With Your 400 Visa Application
The Subclass 400 Temporary Work visa is perfect for specialists and businesses needing short-term expertise in Australia.
Success depends on meeting eligibility requirements, providing thorough documentation, and demonstrating genuine temporary intent. Whether you’re applying for the first time or considering transitioning to a 482 or other work visa, professional guidance is invaluable.
AVIE can help ensure your application is accurate, compliant, and strategically positioned for approval.
Contact AVIE today for expert advice on applying for a 400 visa, preparing documentation, or navigating the pathway to longer-term skilled work in Australia.