Subclass 403 Temporary Work (International Relations) visa
People working under a bilateral agreement, for a foreign government, as domestic staff of a diplomat, or in the Pacific/seasonal labour streams.
The Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) is an Australian employer sponsored visa. This guide covers who the 403 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$415) and processing time (~1-2 months), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 403 visa is for
People working under a bilateral agreement, for a foreign government, as domestic staff of a diplomat, or in the Pacific/seasonal labour streams.
No (temporary) - international-relations streams (including PALM).
Subclass 403 eligibility criteria
- Eligibility under a specific stream (e.g. PALM, Government Agreement, Foreign Government Agency, Domestic Worker)
- Sponsorship or invitation where required
- Genuine purpose and adequate support
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 403 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) is ~$415, with an indicative processing time of ~1-2 months. 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 stream (up to 4 years for some) |
| Work rights | As specified by the stream |
| Study rights | Incidental only |
| Government charge | ~$415 |
| Processing time | ~1-2 months |
| Pathway to PR | No (temporary) - international-relations streams (including PALM). |
Pathway & next steps
No (temporary) - international-relations streams (including PALM).
Many applicants also compare the 408 (Temporary Activity visa), the 400 (Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) 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 403 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 403 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 403 visa cost?
The Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) 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 403 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-2 months. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 403 visa lead to permanent residence?
No (temporary) - international-relations streams (including PALM).
Can I work on the subclass 403 visa?
Work rights on the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403): As specified by the stream.
Who can apply for the 403 visa?
People working under a bilateral agreement, for a foreign government, as domestic staff of a diplomat, or in the Pacific/seasonal labour streams.
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