Australia’s thriving industries often require specialized expertise from overseas workers. The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa (Subclass 400) is designed for skilled professionals who are invited to Australia for short-term assignments.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the Subclass 400 Visa — eligibility, application process, required documents, fees, and common questions.

What Is the Subclass 400 Short Stay Specialist Visa?

The Subclass 400 Visa allows highly skilled professionals to enter Australia for short-term work that:

• Requires specialized skills or knowledge not readily available in Australia

• Is temporary in nature (usually under 3 months)

• Fulfills a specific project or assignment

It is a temporary visa and does not lead directly to permanent residency.

Key Features of the Subclass 400 Visa

• Duration: Usually up to 3 months (extensions up to 6 months in exceptional cases)

• Purpose: To complete urgent, specialized tasks for an Australian employer

• Work Rights: Limited to the employer and role stated in your visa application

• Family Members: Can be included, but they cannot work in Australia

Also Read About- Work Visa Australia

Eligibility for the Subclass 400 Visa

To apply for the 400 Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Invitation or contract from an Australian business for a specific task

• Specialized skills or expertise relevant to the project

• Proof that the work cannot be filled by a local worker

• Health and character requirements

• Adequate health insurance for your stay

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Receive an Invitation or Contract

You must have a formal invitation or job offer from an Australian business.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Prepare all supporting documents including passport, employment contract, and evidence of specialized skills.

Step 3: Lodge the Application

Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount.

Step 4: Provide Biometrics & Health Checks

You may need to attend biometric appointments or medical examinations if required.

Step 5: Wait for Visa Decision

Processing time is usually fast, especially for urgent projects.

Documents Required for Subclass 400 Visa

Common documents include:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)

• Invitation letter or employment contract from Australian employer

• Proof of specialized skills (degrees, certifications, professional licenses)

• Evidence of relevant work experience

• Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay

• Health and character documents (medical exams, police clearances)

Fees for the Subclass 400 Visa

As of 2025:

• Main applicant fee: AUD 405

• Additional applicant (18+): AUD 405

• Additional applicant (under 18): AUD 105

Processing Time for Subclass 400 Visa

Processing times are generally quick:

• Standard applications: 2–4 weeks

• Urgent projects: 1–2 weeks (if all documents are complete)

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Who is the Subclass 400 Visa for?

It’s for highly skilled workers engaged in urgent short-term projects requiring expertise unavailable locally.

Q2: Can I stay longer than 3 months?

Yes, but only in exceptional cases. Extensions up to 6 months may be granted if strongly justified.

Q3: Can I work for multiple employers?

No, the visa is employer-specific. You may only work for the organization listed in your application.

Q4: Can my family join me?

Yes, dependent family members can accompany you, but they are not permitted to work.

Q5: Can I switch to another visa in Australia?

In most cases, you cannot transition directly to a permanent visa. However, you can apply for other visas if you meet eligibility criteria.

Q6: What happens if my work finishes earlier?

You must leave Australia before your visa expires, even if your project ends early.

Q7: Can I apply for the Subclass 400 Visa from within Australia?

No, this visa must be applied for from outside Australia.

Q8: What are common reasons for refusal?

• Incomplete documentation

• Failure to prove the specialized nature of work

• Lack of sufficient funds or health insurance

• Doubts about returning home after the visa period

Benefits of the Subclass 400 Short Stay Specialist Visa

• Quick approval for urgent specialized work

• Opportunity to gain global work experience in Australia

• Ability to include family members in your application

• Flexible stay duration based on project needs

Tips for a Successful Application

• Provide clear evidence of your unique skills

• Submit a detailed contract or invitation letter from your Australian employer

• Ensure health insurance coverage for the full stay

• Lodge your application well before travel dates

Final Thoughts

The Temporary Work Visa (Short Stay Specialist) Subclass 400 is one of the most efficient options for professionals who need to travel to Australia for urgent, specialized projects. It is designed for situations where Australian businesses require skills that cannot be sourced locally, ensuring critical work can proceed without delays.

This visa is especially valuable for industry experts, technical specialists, engineers, IT professionals, project consultants, and other niche skill providers who can deliver expertise on short notice. With a relatively fast processing time and straightforward eligibility criteria, it stands out as one of the most practical work visas for short assignments.

While it does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency, the 400 Visa can be an excellent stepping stone. Professionals who impress their employers may receive offers for longer-term opportunities or employer sponsorship under visas like the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) or Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).

If you’re applying for the Subclass 400 Visa, the keys to success are:

• Ensuring your specialized skills are clearly documented

• Submitting a strong invitation or contract from your Australian employer

• Preparing accurate supporting documents such as qualifications, experience, and proof of funds

• Demonstrating a clear intention to return home at the end of your visa

In summary, the Subclass 400 Short Stay Specialist Visa offers a powerful way to work in Australia on urgent and specialized projects. By carefully preparing your application, you can secure approval quickly and focus on delivering your expertise, while also opening the door to possible future work opportunities in Australia.