Subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa
People coming for specific activities - entertainment, sport, religious work, research, or invited cultural/social programs.
The Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) is an Australian employer sponsored visa. This guide covers who the 408 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$415) and processing time (~3-6 weeks), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 408 visa is for
People coming for specific activities - entertainment, sport, religious work, research, or invited cultural/social programs.
No (temporary) - activity-based visa.
Subclass 408 eligibility criteria
- An invitation or sponsorship for the specific activity stream
- Evidence relevant to your stream (event, sport, religion, research)
- Adequate funds and genuine purpose
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 408 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) is ~$415, with an indicative processing time of ~3-6 weeks. Figures are for 2025-26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore or offshore |
| Length of stay | Varies by activity (up to ~2-4 years for some streams) |
| Work rights | Only the nominated activity |
| Study rights | Incidental only |
| Government charge | ~$415 |
| Processing time | ~3-6 weeks |
| Pathway to PR | No (temporary) - activity-based visa. |
Pathway & next steps
No (temporary) - activity-based visa.
Many applicants also compare the 400 (Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa), the 407 (Training visa), the 482 (Skills in Demand visa (SID)). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 408 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 408 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 408 visa cost?
The Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) base application charge is ~$415. Government charges are indicative for 2025-26 and usually change on 1 July - always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 408 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3-6 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 408 visa lead to permanent residence?
No (temporary) - activity-based visa.
Can I work on the subclass 408 visa?
Work rights on the Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408): Only the nominated activity.
Who can apply for the 408 visa?
People coming for specific activities - entertainment, sport, religious work, research, or invited cultural/social programs.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change - confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) - official Australian immigration authority