What is a Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa?
The Subclass 400 visa is an option for highly skilled individuals to work in Australia on for short-term projects or placements. Overseas businesses can send workers to meet contractual service arrangements, work in their Australian branch, or even to undertake a secondment.
Australian businesses can bring in workers to meet short-term needs such as sudden increase in demand/workload, staff on leave, peak work periods, etc.
This visa is usually valid for a 3-month stay period, but can be granted for up to 6 months where there is a strong business case.
While no formal employer sponsorship is required for this visa, there must be a nominated Australian business (or businesses) for whom work will be undertaken. This is because the visa holder is restricted to engaging in the work or activities specified in the application.
Businesses must provide details of the project/placement including the tasks and duties of the employee, outlining how the work is highly specialized and that it will not impact on employment or training opportunities for Australians.
Requirements For A Subclass 400 Visa
Applicants must demonstrate that they have the skills and experience to perform the work on offer, by providing copies of their CV, qualifications, training certificates, licences, and reference letters.
They must also evidence current employment or self-employment, and show they have financial capacity to support themselves while in Australia.
The biggest requirement is demonstrating that they are a genuine temporary entrant; that is, the applicant intends to travel to Australia for short-term work purposes and intends to depart at the end of their stay. This is usually met by providing evidence of ties back to their country of residence.
The 400 visa can only be applied for and granted when the employee is outside Australia. It is not possible to apply for a further or new 400 visa while onshore.
Individual applicants generally cannot spend more than 6 months in Australia in a 12-month period.
How much does a 400 visa application cost?
As of 1 July 2025, the government application fees are as follows:
Visa Application – Main Applicant – $430
Visa Application – Dependent Applicant over 18yrs of age (each) – $430
Visa Application – Dependent Applicant under 18yrs of age (each) – $110
How long does a 400 take to process?
As of 16 September 2025, Immigration advises the current processing times are as follows:
| Application Type | 50% processed within | 90% processed within |
| 400 visa | 6 days | 23 days |
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