Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa
People coming for short-term, highly specialised, non-ongoing work, or to participate in an event.
The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400) is an Australian employer sponsored visa. This guide covers who the 400 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$415) and processing time (~days to a few weeks), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 400 visa is for
People coming for short-term, highly specialised, non-ongoing work, or to participate in an event.
No (temporary) - short-stay specialist work only.
Subclass 400 eligibility criteria
- Highly specialised skills, knowledge or experience not readily available in Australia
- Short-term, non-ongoing work
- Genuine reason and adequate funds
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 400 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400) is ~$415, with an indicative processing time of ~days to a few weeks. Figures are for 2025-26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary (short stay) |
|---|---|
| Location | Offshore (usually) |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 months (sometimes 6) |
| Work rights | The specialised work specified |
| Study rights | No |
| Government charge | ~$415 |
| Processing time | ~days to a few weeks |
| Pathway to PR | No (temporary) - short-stay specialist work only. |
Pathway & next steps
No (temporary) - short-stay specialist work only.
Many applicants also compare the 408 (Temporary Activity visa), the 482 (Skills in Demand visa (SID)), the 407 (Training visa). 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 400 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 400 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 400 visa cost?
The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400) 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 400 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~days to a few weeks. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 400 visa lead to permanent residence?
No (temporary) - short-stay specialist work only.
Can I work on the subclass 400 visa?
Work rights on the Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400): The specialised work specified.
Who can apply for the 400 visa?
People coming for short-term, highly specialised, non-ongoing work, or to participate in an event.
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