Visa Overview
The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400) is a temporary visa designed for individuals with highly specialised skills, knowledge, or experience. This visa allows you to enter Australia to undertake short-term, non-ongoing work that cannot be easily sourced from the local Australian labour market.
Typically, this visa is granted for a stay of up to 3 months, though extensions of up to 6 months may be considered in limited circumstances where a strong business case is provided.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Subclass 400 visa in 2026, you must meet the following requirements:
- Specialised Skills: You must possess skills or expertise that are not readily available in Australia.
- Non-Ongoing Work: The project or work must have a clear end date and not be a permanent or long-term position.
- Invitation: You must be invited or supported by the Australian organisation for which you will be working.
- Location: You must be outside Australia when you apply for this visa and when the Department of Home Affairs decides on your application.
- Financial Support: You must have access to sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your stay.
2026 Costs and Charges
As of April 2026, the following Visa Application Charges (VAC) apply. Please note that these fees are subject to annual indexation and do not include mandatory surcharges for credit card or PayPal payments.
| Applicant Type | Base Application Charge (AUD) |
| Main Applicant | $430 |
| Additional Applicant (18 and over) | $430 |
| Additional Applicant (under 18) | $110 |
Note on Additional Costs: Applicants may also incur expenses for health examinations, police certificates, and biometrics collection. If you are required to provide biometrics, you must visit an Australian Biometric Collection Centre in your region.
Current Processing Times
Processing times are updated regularly by the Department of Home Affairs to reflect current application volumes. For April 2026, the following benchmarks apply to the Subclass 400 visa:
- 50% of applications: Processed within 7 days
- 90% of applications: Processed within 24 days
To avoid delays, ensure your application is "decision-ready" by attaching all required documentation at the time of lodgement via ImmiAccount.
Application Checklist
- Identity Documents: A valid passport and recent photographs.
- Work Evidence: A letter of invitation from the Australian organisation detailing the position, duration, and why your specialised skills are required.
- Financial Evidence: Bank statements or an employment contract showing adequate funds.
- Health and Character: Evidence of adequate health insurance (Overseas Visitor Health Cover) and police clearances if requested.
- Mobile and Contact Details: Ensure your current mobile number and email address are provided for all correspondence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I study on a Subclass 400 visa?
No. You cannot undertake a course of study leading to a formal qualification. If your primary purpose is study, you should apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, you can include family members (partners and dependent children) in your application. However, family members are generally not permitted to work or study in Australia while on this visa.
Is there a "No Further Stay" condition?
Condition 8503 (No Further Stay) may be attached to this visa, which prevents you from applying for most other visas while you are in Australia.
What happens if I need to stay longer than 3 months?
Stays of up to 6 months are only granted in exceptional circumstances. You must provide significant evidence of the business necessity and prove that the work remains non-ongoing.
Do I need a medical exam?
This depends on your country of citizenship, your intended activities, and the length of your stay. If required, you must use a Department-approved panel physician.
