Overview
The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa covers a range of specialised activities in Australia — entertainers and crew, professional sportspeople, religious workers, researchers, exchange staff, government-endorsed events and other special programs. Each stream has its own requirements, and most need an approved sponsor.
The 408 is the umbrella visa for specialised activities in Australia. Choosing the correct stream is the first decision: an entertainer’s tour, a sports contract, a religious-worker placement and a research fellowship each have different sponsorship and evidence requirements. We map you to the right stream and prepare the application around it.
Who is eligible
- Be invited or engaged in an eligible activity under one of the 408 streams
- Generally be sponsored by an approved temporary activities sponsor
- Demonstrate that you genuinely intend to do the nominated activity
- Meet health, character and adequate funds requirements
Costs
Fees change with annual indexation. See the official Visa Pricing Estimator for the current figure.
Processing times
See the official global visa processing times .
How to apply
- Identify the right stream. Common streams include Entertainment, Sport, Religious Worker, Research, Exchange, Government Endorsed Events and Special Programs.
- Sponsorship and (if needed) nomination. Most streams require an approved sponsor; some also require a nomination of the activity.
- Visa application. You lodge with evidence of the activity, your role, the timeline and any required endorsements.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of work fit the 408?
The 408 covers performers and their crew, professional athletes and coaches, religious workers, researchers and academics, exchange staff, participants in government-endorsed events, and a number of other special programs.
Do I always need a sponsor?
Most streams require a sponsor (an approved temporary activities sponsor or, for some streams, a different endorsed body). The Australian host or organising body typically takes on this role.
Can I work for someone else while on a 408?
No — your work must align with the nominated activity. Working outside the activity breaches the visa condition.