TEMPORARY WORK
Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa (Subclass 400)
Undertake highly specialised, short-term work in Australia upon invitation.
The Temporary Work (subclass 400) visa is a temporary visa that allows you to undertake highly specialised, short-term work in Australia upon invitation from an Australian business. It is designed for projects or tasks over continuing roles or standard employment, where your skills, knowledge or experience are not readily available in the local workforce.
If you require short-term access to specialist expertise for a defined project, the subclass 400 visa provides a targeted pathway to bring in overseas experts where those skills are not available locally and the work is genuinely temporary.
Specialised Work
Perform highly specialised, short-term work.
Project Based
Work must be specific, defined, and non-ongoing.
Skills Gap
Must show the expertise is not easily accessible within Australia.
Short Stay
Standard grant 3 months (up to 6 months in limited cases).
Key Requirements
This visa is not intended to fill standard roles or ongoing labour needs. Examples of highly specialised work may include but are not limited to:
- Installing or commissioning complex equipment
- Delivering specialised training
- Performing niche diagnostics or calibration
- Providing expert advice for a specific project
Non-Ongoing Work
This work must be non-ongoing. That means the tasks should be completed within 6 months or less, with no expectation or arrangements to remain in Australia afterwards for any reason connected to the work.
Grant Duration
The standard grant period is 3 months, however in limited circumstances, the Department may grant a duration of 6 months if the inviting business presents a strong case as to why a longer stay is essential to the highly specialised short-term work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prove that the work is “highly specialised”?
Evidence may include specialist certifications, patents, proprietary knowledge, high-level training delivered overseas, senior industry experience, or involvement in technology or equipment not commonly used in Australia.
Is this a sponsored visa?
No, this is not an employer sponsored visa, however, you will require an invitation letter from the Australian business, Government body or institution to whom your expert skills are required.
Can I work for multiple clients in Australia on a 400 visa?
No. The visa is exclusive to the specific project and inviting organisation. Working for other parties is not permitted.
Can the visa be extended beyond 6 months?
The subclass 400 visa is not designed for ongoing or extended projects. If work may continue beyond 6 months, a different visa subclass should be considered. Importantly, a subclass 400 visa must only be submitted while offshore.
Can my family travel with me?
Yes, dependants may be included; however, 400 visas are not intended for long-term family stays. Family members must also meet character and health criteria, and cannot work in Australia.
What type of evidence strengthens a 6-month request?
Strong technical justification, detailed project milestones, a compelling reason why the work cannot be shortened, and evidence of specialised knowledge unique to the applicant. Manufacturer support letters or project contracts are helpful.
Can I receive salary from overseas while working in Australia?
Yes, remuneration may come from overseas or Australia, but the work must be genuinely short-term and specialised.
Does market salary benchmarking apply like it does for 482 visas?
The Department may assess remuneration reasonableness to ensure the role reflects genuine specialist work. While formal salary thresholds do not apply, low pay may raise concerns.
What happens if the project scope changes after the visa is granted?
If the project changes or expands significantly, you may need to apply for a different visa. Continuing beyond the authorised scope can put future visa prospects at risk.
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