Overview
The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity Visa (Australian Government Endorsed Events stream) allows individuals to travel to Australia to participate in major events specifically endorsed by the Australian Government. In 2026, this stream is primarily utilised for participants and officials involved in significant international engagements such as the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Asian Cup 2026 and preliminary preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the AGEE stream of the 408 visa, applicants must meet the following Department of Home Affairs requirements:
- Event Endorsement: You must be participating in an event officially endorsed by the Australian Government via legislative instrument.
- Support and Skills: You must demonstrate the necessary skills and experience to perform the role required by the event.
- Financial Capacity: You must show evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your stay.
- Health and Character: Applicants must meet strict health and character benchmarks, including providing police clearances from any country lived in for 12 months or more over the last decade.
- Adequate Health Insurance: Evidence of Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa.
Visa Benefits
- Multiple Entry: Travel to and from Australia as many times as required while the visa is valid.
- Work Rights: Engage in work or activities specifically associated with the endorsed event.
- Family Inclusion: Include members of the family unit (partners and dependent children) in the application.
- Duration: Stay for the duration of the event, typically up to 4 years depending on the specific event requirements.
2026 Costs and Charges
The Australian Department of Home Affairs updated its fee structure effective April 2026. The following rates apply to the AGEE stream:
| Charge Type | 2026 Rate (AUD) |
| Base Application Charge | $430 |
| Additional Applicant (18+) | $430 |
| Additional Applicant (<18) | $110 |
Note on Nil VAC: Under certain legislative instruments for 2026, participants of specific events (such as the AFC Women's Asian Cup) may be eligible for a Nil Visa Application Charge ($0). Contact Aussie Immigration Services® to verify if your event qualifies for this concession.
Processing Times
Processing times are subject to change based on application volume and complexity. As of April 2026, the Department of Home Affairs reports the following benchmarks for the Subclass 408 AGEE stream:
- 50% of applications: Processed within 15 days.
- 90% of applications: Processed within 35 days.
Factors that may delay your application include incomplete documentation, the time taken to respond to requests for information, and the duration of external health and character checks.
Application Steps
- Confirm Endorsement: Ensure the event you are attending is a declared Australian Government Endorsed Event.
- Gather Evidence: Collect your letter of invitation, proof of financial capacity, and health insurance certificate.
- Lodge Online: Submit your application via ImmiAccount. You can be in or outside Australia when applying.
- Health & Biometrics: If prompted, attend a health examination and provide biometric data via a Mobile or fixed collection point.
- Visa Outcome: Receive your notification in writing. Ensure your passport details are current as the visa is linked digitally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my stay on a 408 visa?
No, you cannot stay in Australia longer by extending this visa. If you wish to remain after the event concludes, you must apply for a different visa subclass for which you are eligible.
Is there an age limit for the AGEE stream?
There is generally no age limit for this specific stream, provided the applicant meets the requirements of the endorsed event and all health/character criteria.
What is the "Genuine Temporary Entrant" requirement?
You must satisfy the Department that you genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of the event and will return home once your visa expires.
Do I need a sponsor?
For the AGEE stream, formal sponsorship is typically not required; however, you must be "supported" by the organisation responsible for the endorsed event.
