Temporary Activity Visa – Subclass 408

Temporary Activity Visa – Subclass 408

What is a Subclass 408 visa?

The Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) allows individuals to come to Australia to undertake specific short-term activities that are coordinated through a formal invitation, endorsement, or sponsorship. It is one of the most flexible temporary work visas, designed to support a broad range of engagements including entertainment, research, sporting participation, cultural exchange, religious work, and other approved programs. This visa enables organisations and event principals to bring in overseas talent or participants for defined activities without requiring an ongoing employment relationship.

Key Information

Typical stay periodVisa cost
Generally 3 months up to 4 years depending on the stream and activity
Processing timeAm I eligible?
Varies by stream and completeness of applicationYou must meet the criteria of the specific stream, and be supported or sponsored where required

Visa Streams

The Subclass 408 visa operates across multiple streams tailored to the nature of the activities you will undertake in Australia. Each stream has its own eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.

Entertainment Activities

For performers and related professionals working on film, television, theatre, live events, festivals, or similar productions.
  • Includes actors, musicians, crew, production and support staff
  • Visa typically granted for the duration of the project (up to 2 years)
  • Sponsorship or invitation required
This stream supports commercial and non-commercial entertainment work.

Religious Work

For individuals undertaking religious duties or related activities with a recognised religious institution.
  • Full-time religious roles
  • May be granted for up to 2 years
  • Requires endorsement by the relevant religious body or sponsor
  • Demonstrated relevant experience or qualifications typically required

Research Activities

For academics, researchers, and research students participating in research projects at Australian institutions.
  • Up to 2-year stay for collaborative research or observation
  • Requires invitation or support from the host institution
  • Allows family members to be included under the same application

Sporting Activities

For athletes, coaches, officials, and high-level sports participants undertaking sporting roles.
  • Includes competition, coaching, structured training, or adjudication
  • Typically granted for the activity period (up to 2 years)<
  • Requires invitation by an Australian sporting organisation

Invited Participant (Other Social & Cultural Activity)

For individuals invited to take part in community events, cultural exchanges or short-term social activities.
  • Usually up to 3 months depending on the event
  • Requires a formal invitation from the hosting body<

Special Program

For structured programs such as youth exchange, community enrichment, language assistant programs, or school-to-school initiatives.
  • Sponsored or endorsed program participation
  • Period of stay varies by program duration<

Superyacht Crew

For crew members of superyachts operating within Australian waters.
  • Typically up to 12 months
  • Requires sponsorship by an eligible owner or operator

Domestic Work (Executive) & Exchange Arrangements

Also included are:
  • Domestic Work (Executive) – full-time domestic work for certain senior executives visiting Australia
  • Exchange Arrangements – formal staff exchange programs between corporate entities
Each has specific eligibility and sponsorship requirements.

General Eligibility

To apply for a Subclass 408 visa you must
  • Meet the criteria of the relevant visa stream
  • Provide evidence of invitation, endorsement or sponsorship
  • Demonstrate the skills, experience or background relevant to the activity
  • Meet health, character and genuine temporary entrant requirements
  • Have adequate financial capacity and health insurance for the duration of your stay
For certain streams, such as research or entertainment, appropriate documentation outlining your role, contract or coordination details is critical.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can family members be included?

Yes. Many Subclass 408 streams allow eligible family members to be included in the visa application. Each member must meet relevant health and character requirements.

No. The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa is temporary and tied to specific activities. It does not lead directly to permanent residency, although experience and engagement may support future visa pathways.

You cannot extend the same visa beyond its validity. If additional activity or extended duration is required, a new visa application through the appropriate stream may be necessary.

How Roam Migration Law Can Help

Roam Migration Law helps organisations, event principals, and individuals navigate the complexity of the Subclass 408 system.

We can assist with:

  • Determining the correct visa stream for your activity
  • Sponsorship approvals and compliance obligations
  • Preparation and lodgement of decision-ready applications
  • Drafting activity justification and support documentation
  • Coordinating multi-participant or team-based submissions
  • Managing risk where timing and compliance are commercially critical

Our strategic approach ensures that immigration planning integrates seamlessly with project delivery and operational schedules.

Speak With Us

If you’re bringing talent, participants, or specialists to Australia under an event, program, or activity, contact Roam Migration Law for tailored guidance on the Subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa. Getting the strategy right early mitigates delays and compliance exposure.

* Visa costs and processing times vary by stream and are subject to Home Affairs changes; always check current official figures.