If you have highly specialised skills that are urgently needed in Australia, the Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa – Subclass 400 could be your fastest route to entry. This visa is ideal for professionals who need to complete short-term, high-value work without long processing times or complex sponsorship arrangements.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key details of the 400 visa, eligibility, how to apply, and why it’s perfect for specialist workers and consultants.
What Is the Subclass 400 Visa?
The Subclass 400 visa is a temporary work visa that allows foreign nationals with specialised skills, knowledge, or experience to work in Australia for up to 3 months, and in limited cases, up to 6 months.
This visa is not suitable for general or ongoing work. It’s designed for specific short-term projects that require skills not readily available in Australia.
Who Should Apply for the 400 Visa?
The Subclass 400 visa is ideal for:
Engineers and IT specialists on short projects
Foreign technicians installing or maintaining equipment
Consultants providing expert knowledge
Professionals attending critical business assignments
Specialists working on government or defence-related contracts
If your work is of short duration and of critical importance, the 400 visa is the right fit.
Subclass 400 Visa Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the 400 visa, you must:
Have specialised skills or experience not easily found in the local workforce
Be invited or sponsored by an Australian business (optional but helpful)
Be coming for short-term, non-ongoing work
Show you’ll return to your home country after the assignment
Demonstrate genuine temporary stay intentions
Meet health and character requirements
You do not need a formal sponsorship, but providing a letter of support from the Australian company you’ll work with can strengthen your application.
Required Documents for Subclass 400 Visa
When applying, prepare the following:
A valid passport
A job offer or letter of invitation from the Australian host
A detailed description of your specialist work
Proof of your skills or qualifications
Evidence of relevant experience
Proof of funds or financial support
Overseas health insurance
Police and character documents (if requested)
How Long Can You Stay?
The Subclass 400 visa is generally granted for up to 3 months, but extensions up to 6 months may be approved in exceptional cases.
You can only stay temporarily, and the visa does not lead to permanent residency. You cannot extend this visa in Australia—you must apply again offshore if needed.
How to Apply for the 400 Visa
You must apply from outside Australia before you travel. Here's how:
Create an ImmiAccount on the Australian Immigration website
Complete the online application form
Upload all required documents
Pay the visa fee (approximately AUD $405 as of 2025)
Wait for a decision (processing time is usually 10–30 days)
Once granted, you can travel to Australia and begin your specialist work immediately.
Benefits of the Subclass 400 Visa
Fast processing times
No need for employer sponsorship (if you qualify independently)
Perfect for urgent, project-based assignments
Suitable for technical or specialist roles
Flexible for contract or short-term roles
Why Use a Registered Migration Agent?
Visa refusals for Subclass 400 can occur due to unclear documentation or insufficient evidence of specialist skills. Working with a MARA-registered migration agent ensures:
Clear identification of your visa eligibility
Strong documentation tailored to the 400 visa stream
Faster application turnaround
Minimized chances of refusal
Apply with Immigration Buddy – Short-Term Work Made Simple
At Immigration Buddy, we specialise in fast-tracked Subclass 400 visa applications. Whether you're a consultant, engineer, or technical expert, we can help you get to Australia—fast and hassle-free.
Our Services Include:
Personalised visa consultation
Document preparation and verification
Fast application filing
Support with employer communication
Ready to Start Your Work Project in Australia?
Don’t let paperwork slow down your opportunity. Apply for the Subclass 400 Temporary Work Visa today with the help of trusted experts.
Contact Immigration Buddy now and get your short-term visa processed fast – so you can focus on what you do best.
