subclass 400
Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa (subclass 400)
For highly specialised overseas workers needed for short-term, non-ongoing work in Australia — typically no more than 3–6 months. Common uses include equipment installation, training, specialist consulting, and technical projects. No formal employer sponsorship approval required, making this a fast and flexible option for specific needs.
- Temporary — max 3–6 months typically
- Fast — weeks processing
- Govt fee: ~$365
- Highly specialised work only
What Is the Subclass 400 Visa?
The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa (Subclass 400) is designed for highly specialised overseas workers who need to come to Australia for a short period to undertake work that is not ongoing and cannot reasonably be done by an Australian worker. It is one of Australia’s most flexible and fast-processing work visas — ideal for project-based specialist work, equipment commissioning, technical training, or expert consulting engagements of limited duration.
Unlike the 482 or 186, the 400 does not require the employer to be an Approved Standard Business Sponsor — making it accessible to businesses that have not previously sponsored overseas workers and don’t want to go through the full sponsorship approval process for a one-off engagement.
Key Characteristics
✅ What the 400 Is Good For
- Specialist equipment installation or commissioning
- Technical knowledge transfer or training programs
- Expert consulting for a defined project
- Short-term crisis or emergency technical support
- Warranty or contractual obligations requiring overseas technicians
- Short-term entertainment or film crew (if 408 is not suitable)
❌ What the 400 Is NOT Suitable For
- Ongoing employment or regular recurring work
- Filling a permanent vacancy in your workforce
- Work that can reasonably be done by an Australian worker
- Work lasting longer than 3–6 months (in most cases)
- Work in a role covered by standard sponsorship streams
Eligibility Requirements
- The work must be short-term, non-ongoing, and highly specialised
- The worker must have the relevant specialised skills, knowledge or expertise
- The work should generally not be able to be sourced in Australia
- The visa holder must intend to leave Australia at the end of the approved period
- Health and character requirements apply
- No formal employer sponsorship is required — the employer provides a letter of support
Unlike the 482, there is no automatic right to this visa if criteria are met — the Department exercises discretion. A poorly prepared application risks refusal. Our lawyers prepare 400 applications that clearly articulate why the work is highly specialised, why it cannot be sourced locally, and why it is short-term.
What the Employer Provides
- A detailed support letter explaining the nature of the work, why it is specialised, and why it cannot be done by an Australian
- Evidence of the contractual or project basis for the engagement
- Confirmation of the intended duration and start date
- Details of the worker's specialised qualifications or expertise
- Confirmation of remuneration arrangements
Processing Times and Extensions
The 400 typically processes within a few weeks when well-prepared. Extensions may be granted in limited circumstances (for example, where the project runs over time due to circumstances beyond the employer’s control) but the visa is not designed as an ongoing arrangement. If your needs extend beyond the 400’s scope, we will recommend the appropriate pathway.