Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408): Latest Checklist 2025

Written by

Amitaanshu Midha

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Mar 04,2025

408 Visa Australia: Guide to Temporary Activity Visas - TerraTern

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The Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) functions in Australia under visa classification 408 Visa Australia. It enables foreign nationals to work in Australia briefly or do specified activities. 408 Visa Australia has been created for Australian professionals. It is for those in the entertainment sector and those in research, sports, and cultural exchange programs. The available visa periods start at three months and extend to four years according to the selected stream. 408 Visa Australia holders receive work rights according to their activity. This visa initiates multifold temporary entry channels. It is for people interested in Australian work opportunities.

 

Latest Facts and News (2025)

408 visa australia - TerraTern 

Here are the latest facts and news about 408 Visa Australia:

  • Most 408 visa applications move through the Australian evaluation system at speeds between 35 to 50 days. The Australian government simplified visa application processes. They now complete applications in shorter periods while enhancing operational performance.

  • The COVID-19 Pandemic Event Stream functions actively. It is for essential workers who want to submit their visa applications. Australia supports its pandemic response through essential healthcare workforce members. It also assists with aged care and agricultural departments.

  • One should officially expand the requirements for eligible activities. This way, more industries can apply for the 408 visa. Technology conferences, environmental research projects, and international business delegations. These are the new activities eligible for the visa program.

  • Several nations obtained more straightforward pathways to get the 408 visa. This was achieved through reciprocal agreements with Australia. Through these agreements, the application process becomes speedier and more concise. Thus enabling eligible nationalities to access the visas more easily.

  • Australia's film and television industry has experienced significant growth. This was because of its expanding entertainment sector. The 408 visa enables many international actors, directors, and production crew to participate in project work in Australia.

  • The number of researchers obtaining 408 visas has risen. These visas allow them to work together with Australian universities and institutions. The increasing number of visa approvals shows Australia's dedication. This is towards connecting with international scientists through research partnerships.

The 408 Visa Australia provides Australian work opportunities students can discover through this pathway.

Also Read: Expression of Interest Australia: Expert Guide & Tips

Understanding the Subclass 408 Visa Australia

Understanding the Subclass 408 Visa Australia - TerraTern

This guide will help you know more about the 408 Visa Australia:

  • The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity Visa. It enables people to seek employment during short-term engagements. They can do this while taking part in authorized Australian activities.

  • The visa serves Australian entertainment, sports, research, and cultural exchange sectors.

  • This visa is appropriate for individuals disqualified from other Australian work permits.

  • Different streams under the 408 visa have distinct eligibility features. They are according to their work or activity focus.

Key Features of the 408 Visa Australia

Here are the key features of the 408 Visa Australia:

  • Australians can get a visa for 3 months to 4 years under specified visa streams and occupation conditions.

  • Many Entries – Allows many entries into Australia during the visa'svisa'svisa'svisa's validity period.

  • Visa authorization for work requires jobs matching the business activities.

  • The application process permits eligible family members to join when applying for visas.

  • Flexibility – Covers many short-term opportunities, from government-endorsed events to specialized research projects.

  • This visa does not lead to PR status but is an entry to potential pathways for Australian permanent residency.

Subclass 408 Visa Australia Requirements

Subclass 408 Visa Australia Requirements - TerraTern

Here are the subclass 408 visa Australia requirements:

  • A 408 visa applicant must fulfill the established eligibility criteria. The Department of Home Affairs specifies it.

  • The documentation conditions depend on the selected visa type while following standard procedures.

  • Application documents need to contain truthful proof for all submitted information.

General Eligibility Criteria for 408 Visa Australia

Here are the general eligibility criteria for the subclass 408 visa Australia requirements:

  • Foreign nationals need either an official invite from an Australian organization. Or sponsorship approval from an authorized Australian organization.

  • People must show their genuine dedication. To conduct their authorized activities with authentic intentions.

  • The foreign visitor must maintain enough health insurance coverage. This is a prerequisite for medical cost reimbursement during their stay in Australia.

  • The Australian health and character requirements. These include medical exams and police clearance procedures when specified.

  • All visa applicants must show that their available money exceeds the costs of living expenses. It includes accommodation expenses and any dependent'sdependent'sdependent'sdependent's care needs in Australia.

  • More conditions might exist in specific streams. They might need further proof through professional qualifications or endorsements.

Types of Temporary Work Visa Australia 408

Types of Temporary Work Visa Australia 408 - TerraTern

Here are details about the temporary work visa Australia 408:

  • The Subclass temporary work visa Australia 408 allows applicants to choose between different streams.

  • Australian immigration rules enable people to both work and get training. They are also allowed to take part in particular activities.

  • Each activity stream follows different requirements and operational conditions. They stem from the nature of the particular activity.

Also Read: New Laws Protecting Immigrants Implemented in Australia

Popular 408 Visa Australia Streams

Here are the popular 408 Visa Australia streams:

  • For example, A professional entertainment worker in the arts industry.

  • The visa allows selected participants to attend special events and festivals. They are also allowed to go to conferences that take place in Australia.

  • Researchers participating with Australian institutions. They can conduct scientific projects and academic work and receive an SCS visa.

  • A person who engages in sports activities. Including professional athletics, coaching staff, and athletic trainers. Even those who work in competitions, training events, or development programs fall under this exemption.

  • Men of religion, missionaries, and faith-based workers participate in religious activities. They also serve communities across Australia.

  • Those who work for luxury yachts in Australian waters are classified as Superyacht Crew professionals.

  • Professional staff with Australian government endorsements. They can get a visa to participate in officially authorized cultural and sporting activities.

Application Process for 408 Visa Australia in 2025

Types of Temporary Work Visa Australia 408 - TerraTern

This section highlights the application process for the 408 Visa Australia:

  • Many procedural actions are necessary for a Subclass 408 visa application process.

  • The preparation quality of an application impacts how fast the application gets approved.

  • To apply, candidates must present correct documentation while fulfilling the requirements.

Step-by-Step Application Guide for 408 Visa

  1. Choose your visa stream correctly from the available options. It should be chosen according to your planned activities in Australia.

  2. The first step involves collecting vital documents. These include your passport, sponsorship letters, financial evidence, and detailed descriptions.

  3. All applicants must file their immigration petition using ImmiAccount. It is the Australian immigration processing platform.

  4. You need to pay your visa application fee after submitting your application online. You have to select the appropriate stream from the available options.

  5. Health and character assessment must be finished. It should be done according to your visa type through medical testing and police background checks.

  6. Your application proceeds to the Department of Home Affairs, which decides your visa status.

  • Most visa applications will reach their concluding stages between 35 and 50 days, but exact processing times differ.

  • Regular visits to your ImmiAccount are necessary to check for any information requests.

Processing Times and Visa Costs for 408 Visa

  • Applicants need to understand visa processing durations and payment costs. This is required to plan their immigration process.

  • The costs for visas depend on both the selected stream and personal conditions.

  • Some extra expenses will become necessary according to health and security needs.

Current Processing Times and Fees for 408 Visa

  • The usual duration for application completion exceeds 35 to 50 days.

  • The visa application cost varies from AUD 325 onward, depending on your field of study.

  • Some applicants need to pay extra expenses for medical assessments and police certificates. The submission of biometrics depends on visa requirements.

  • This visa class does not provide priority processing; thus, applicants should submit their applications before departure.

  • The assessment fees can change because of changing currency rates.

  • People should check the official website fee information before applying for a visa.

Benefits and Limitations of the Subclass 408 Visa Australia: Experts Insights

This section highlights the benefits and limitations of the 408 Visa Australia:

  • The advantages and restrictions enable applicants to choose their study path wisely.

  • The 408 visa offers functional possibilities, although it contains specific limits.

Advantages

  • Multiple work sectors are open through flexibility due to international work authorization that includes entertainment productions, sports and research fields, and cultural exchange initiatives.

  • Australian employees can get international experience through professional work while interacting with Australia'sAustralia'sAustralia'sAustralia's working environment.

  • Working professionals can use networking to establish relationships, which may eventually generate new employment opportunities or sponsorship programs.

  • The short-term solution provides temporary work authorization to people who want limited employment benefits.

  • While not a direct path, it enables individuals to establish the work history required for applying for different visas based on their experience.

Read More: Top 10 Highest Paying Countries For Nurses: Updated

Limitations

  • The 408 visa excludes providing a direct path to permanent residency as one of its essential characteristics.

  • Workers using this visa can perform activities specified in their visa application and none beyond those.

  • Time restrictions apply because the 408 visa remains valid between 3 months to 4 years but requires a visa extension or another visa to stay longer.

  • All applicants must possess an active sponsor together with an official invitation from an organization qualified to serve as their sponsor.

  • Some streams of the 408 visa restrict applicants who want to reapply as they need other alternative visa options.

  • The success of achieving visa advantages while dealing with potential disadvantages depends on proper planning.

 

Conclusion

The 408 Visa Australia is a beneficial option for prospective individuals to secure temporary work with approved participation activities. The 408 Visa Australia serves qualified entertainment professionals, researchers, sports professionals, and cultural workers. Under the 408 visa, Australian candidates receive adaptability because they can join temporary work from multiple industries.

Candidates who understand visa requirements, the application process, and the benefits can develop better planning methods that enhance their approval chances. The 408 visa enables artists, scientists, and skilled professionals to launch their career paths in Australia. Contact TerraTern today to get your 408 Visa Australia!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I extend my 408 Visa Australia?

You must check the activity type and visa stream to determine extension possibilities. The ability to renew depends on stream rules, but new applications could be necessary for different streams. The best source of information about visa extensions can be found through the Department of Home Affairs or from a registered migration agent.

Does the 408 visa serve as a temporary gateway for residency in Australia?

Permanent residency cannot be obtained directly through a 408 visa application. Work experience acquired through this visa might support future visa applications. Some visa holders move forward to employer-sponsored or skilled migration schemes.

Can I engage in studies while being on a 408 visa?

The visa allows incidental study activities as long as studying remains a minor component of your purpose in Australia. People wanting to enroll in full-time studies must apply for a student visa (Subclass 500).

Visa applicants need to submit applications. At what timeframe should they do so before their departure?

Plan your application process two to three months before your planned travel period. The proper amount of processing time allows scrutiny of documents and meets any supplemental requirements needed for the application. Most visa applications require an early submission because processing delays can sometimes happen.

Can I bring my family to join me during my stay?

Your family members who meet the application requirements can participate in your visa application. The visa conditions given to the principal applicant will match those received by family members included in the application. Work and study rights are available to qualified family members who apply for certain types of visas. Application success depends significantly on sufficient planning before the visa application begins.