Temporary Work — Subclass 400
400 Temporary Work Visa
The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400) allows highly specialised workers to perform specific, short-term work in Australia that is not of an ongoing nature. It is a single-stage application that does not require the employer to hold Standard Business Sponsorship approval.
When the subclass 400 applies
The subclass 400 is appropriate where the work to be performed is genuinely specialised, short-term, and does not fit the criteria of other employer sponsored visas such as the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482). It is commonly used for specialist consultants, technical experts, and workers attending specific short-term projects.
The work must be non-ongoing. The subclass 400 is not intended as a substitute for a longer-term employer sponsored visa where the work is continuing in nature.
The visa does not provide a pathway to permanent residence and does not allow family members to be included. Workers who require a longer stay or a permanent outcome should consider whether another visa category is more appropriate.
No sponsorship required
The subclass 400 does not require the employer to hold Standard Business Sponsorship. The applicant must demonstrate a legitimate engagement with an Australian organisation or project.
Genuinely specialised work
The work must be of a genuinely specialised nature that cannot practicably be performed by an Australian worker. The specialisation must be demonstrated by the applicant's qualifications and experience.
Short-term and non-ongoing
The visa is typically granted for up to three months. In limited circumstances, six months may be approved. Extensions are not available. Workers needing a longer stay must apply for a different visa.
Single applicant only
Family members cannot be included in a subclass 400 application. The visa does not provide study or work rights for accompanying family members.
400
Visa subclass
3 months
Typical stay period
No SBS
Sponsor approval required
No PR
Pathway to permanent residence
Why instruct Visa Plan for your subclass 400 application?
Correct visa selection
The subclass 400 is appropriate only in specific circumstances. We assess whether it is the right pathway for your situation or whether a different visa better fits the nature and duration of the work.
Specialisation evidence
The application must demonstrate that the work is genuinely specialised and short-term. We advise on what evidence is required and how to present the applicant's qualifications and the nature of the work.
Alternative pathways
If the subclass 400 is not appropriate, we advise on alternative visa options including the 482 SID visa, the 407 Training visa, and the 408 Temporary Activity visa depending on the specific circumstances.
Subclass 400 visa information is sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and is current as at April 2026. Eligibility criteria are subject to change. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.