Need help with employer sponsored visas? Book a telephonic consultation with our MARA-registered agents (Reg# 2217775).
What Is the Subclass 408 Visa?
Temporary Activity
Allows approved individuals to come to Australia for a specific temporary activity — from entertainment and sports to research, religious work, and seasonal programs.
Multiple Purposes
Covers a wide range of activity streams under one visa subclass — making it a flexible option for individuals, organisations, and government-endorsed participants.
Up to 2 Years
Typically valid for the duration of the nominated activity — usually 3 to 12 months depending on stream, with some streams allowing up to 2 years. No pathway to permanent residency.
Sponsor or No Sponsor Required
Depending on the activity stream, applicants may need sponsorship from an approved Australian organisation — or in some cases may be self-sponsored or invited by a government body.
Common Streams
Entertainment
Actors, film and television crew, production staff, touring musicians, performers, and artists for short-term film, television, theatre, or live performance productions in Australia.
Religious Work
Clergy, religious workers, and volunteers participating in missions, volunteer work, or NGO assignments for approved religious organisations operating in Australia.
Research & Academic
Visiting scholars, researchers, and exchange staff undertaking academic or research placements, collaborations, or fellowships with Australian institutions or universities.
Commonwealth Government Sponsored
Participants in activities endorsed or arranged by Australian or overseas government bodies as part of capacity-building, diplomatic, or special government-endorsed programs.
Domestic Worker (Diplomat)
Domestic workers employed by eligible diplomatic or consular staff at overseas missions in Australia, subject to specific conditions attached to this stream.
How ABEE'S Consultancy Helps
Stream Identification
We identify the correct activity stream for your situation, confirm sponsorship or invitation requirements, and advise on supporting documentation needed for your specific activity type.
Application Preparation & Lodgement
We prepare and lodge your visa application — including sponsorship documentation, activity justification, identity evidence, and health and character requirements.
Conditions & Compliance Advice
We explain your visa conditions clearly, advise on permitted activities, and help you understand the steps required if your activity changes or your stay needs to be extended.
Documents Required
- Passport and identity documents for applicant and any included family members
- Sponsorship or invitation letter from the approved Australian organisation or government body
- Evidence of the temporary activity (event letter, contract, proof of skills or role)
- Activity justification statement demonstrating genuineness and temporary intent
- Health examination results (where required by the specific activity stream)
- Police clearances from Australia and relevant countries of residence
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — partners and dependent children can be included as secondary applicants, subject to the standard health and character clearance requirements.
No. The 408 is a temporary visa tied to a specific activity with no permanent residency pathway. Long-term or permanent stay in Australia would require qualifying under a separate visa subclass.
No. Only work directly related to the approved activity or sponsorship is permitted. General employment outside the approved activity scope is not allowed under this visa.