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Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) – Your Guide to Short-Term Work in Australia

Saleem Ullah - MARN 1796061

10/24/2025

photo of white staircase
photo of white staircase

The Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) allows individuals to come to Australia for short-term work or participation in specific events, programs, or activities. Whether you’re an artist, athlete, researcher, or cultural participant, this visa offers the opportunity to share your skills and experience in Australia for a set period.

At Melbourne Migration Services, we provide professional advice and assistance to help applicants navigate the Subclass 408 visa process with confidence.

What Is the Subclass 408 Visa?

The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity Visa is designed for people who want to work or take part in approved short-term activities in Australia.

It’s suitable for:

  • Sporting professionals, coaches, or officials

  • Artists, entertainers, and production crew

  • Academic researchers and visiting scholars

  • Religious workers or community program participants

  • People invited to government-endorsed or cultural events

Depending on your stream, you may be able to stay in Australia for up to four years.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for this visa, applicants must:

  • Be invited, sponsored, or endorsed by an eligible Australian organisation

  • Have a genuine temporary purpose for their stay

  • Meet health and character requirements

  • Maintain adequate health insurance

  • Demonstrate financial capacity to support their stay

Each activity stream has its own specific requirements, so professional advice is strongly recommended.

Visa Conditions and Benefits

With this visa, you can:

  • Work only in the approved event or activity

  • Bring eligible family members (if applicable)

  • Travel in and out of Australia during your visa period

This visa is temporary and does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency. However, it’s an excellent option for those who wish to gain short-term experience or contribute to Australian projects and programs.

Processing Times and Duration

The length of stay depends on the activity stream:

  • Invited Participant stream: Up to 3 months

  • Other streams: Up to 2 to 4 years

Processing times vary based on the applicant’s circumstances, so it’s important to apply early and ensure all documentation is complete and accurate.

Why Choose Melbourne Migration Services

Based in the heart of Melbourne, Melbourne Migration Services is a trusted name in immigration assistance. Our registered migration professionals have in-depth knowledge of Australian visa requirements and stay updated on policy changes.

We help you:

  • Select the most suitable visa stream

  • Prepare strong supporting documentation

  • Avoid common application errors

  • Save time and reduce stress throughout the visa process

Whether you’re applying individually or representing an organisation hosting overseas participants, our team provides reliable, end-to-end support tailored to your needs.

The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity Visa is perfect for those looking to share their expertise or participate in meaningful short-term activities in Australia.

At Melbourne Migration Services, we’re committed to helping you every step of the way — from initial consultation to final visa lodgement — ensuring your application is handled professionally and efficiently.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute individual migration advice. For personalised assistance, please contact a registered migration agent at Melbourne Migration Services.