Temporary Activity Visa, Subclass 408
The 408 covers a range of specific temporary activities, each with its own stream and rules. Some streams need a sponsor or an endorsement from an organisation, and others do not. Because the requirements change so much from stream to stream, the most important step is working out which one fits what you will actually be doing.
The 408 covers many specific temporary activities, from events and research to entertainment. Each stream has its own rules, and some need a sponsor or an endorsement while others do not. We work out which stream fits before anything is lodged.
- TypeTemporary
- StreamsEvents, research, entertainment and more
- SponsorNeeded for some streams
- Leads toNo direct PR pathway
Overview
The 408 covers a range of specific temporary activities, each with its own stream and rules.
- Some streams need a sponsor or an endorsement from an organisation, and others do not.
- Choosing the right stream for what you will actually be doing is the most important step.
Who this suits
People taking part in a specific event, research project or performance
Organisations hosting visitors for a defined activity
People who are not covered by a work, student or visitor visa
Key facts
- Temporary visa with many streams, such as events, research and entertainment
- Some streams need a sponsor or endorsement, and others do not
- Stream-specific rules for stay, conditions and evidence
- No direct pathway to permanent residence
Employer fees: sponsorship, nomination and levy
- Temporary activities sponsorship$420
For the streams that need a sponsor.
These are the Department of Home Affairs charges paid by the employer. They can change, so confirm the current amounts with the Department before you lodge. The Skilling Australians Fund levy cannot be passed on to the worker. The visa application charge for the worker is separate, and our professional fees are separate.
What you need to qualify
- Your activity must fit one of the 408 streams, with the evidence that stream asks for.
- Where the stream needs it, a sponsor or endorsement must be in place before you apply.
- You must meet health and character requirements.
- You must intend to take part in the activity for the period granted, then leave or move to another visa.
How the process works
- 01Confirm the activity and identify the right stream
- 02Check whether a sponsor or endorsement is needed, and arrange it
- 03Gather the evidence that stream asks for
- 04Lodge the application
- 05Respond to any requests, and receive the decision
Documents you will need
- Passport and identity documents
- Details of the activity, such as an invitation, contract or program
- Sponsor or endorsement documents, where the stream needs them
- Evidence of your skills or role in the activity
- Police certificates and health examination results when requested
After the visa is granted
- You can do only the activity the visa allows, for the period granted.
- Keep to the visa conditions, including the end date.
- The 408 has no direct pathway to permanent residence.
- If the activity changes or runs over, speak to us before anything changes.
How we help
- Identify the right stream for the activity
- Check whether a sponsor or endorsement is needed, and help arrange it
- Prepare the application with the evidence that stream asks for
- Tell you early if a different visa is a better fit
Common pitfalls
- Choosing the wrong stream for the activity
- Not checking whether a sponsor or endorsement is needed until late
- Assuming the rules of one stream apply to another
- Planning around a stay that the stream does not allow
Frequently asked questions
Does the 408 need a sponsor?
It depends on the stream. Some streams need a sponsor or an endorsement from an organisation, and others do not. We confirm this first.
Can a 408 lead to permanent residence?
Not directly. If a longer-term outcome matters, we can assess whether another pathway suits you.
How long can I stay on a 408?
It depends on the stream and the activity. We confirm the period before you plan dates.
How do I know if the 408 is the right visa?
It depends on what you will actually be doing. If another visa fits better, such as a work or visitor visa, we will tell you early.