Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa 400
Highly specialised, short, non-ongoing work, usually up to 6 months.
In force
Who it is for
People with highly specialised skills doing short-term, non-ongoing work that cannot reasonably be done by the Australian labour market.
Main requirements
- Specialised skills shown by CV, licences, qualifications and an employer letter.
- Non-ongoing work; genuine temporary stay; adequate means of support; health and character.
- Family members can be included but cannot work or study.
Where you apply from
Outside Australia only, and outside Australia at decision.
Your journey, step by step
From the first enquiry to the decision and after, with how a registered migration agent helps at each step. No step promises an outcome.
- Check the right visa
Compare the 400, a business visitor visa and the 482.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent checks which visa genuinely fits the work. - Service agreement
Before any personal advice or preparation, you receive a written service agreement and the OMARA Consumer Guide.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent sets out the work, the fee and the refund policy in writing. No money is taken for visa work before the agreement is signed. - Evidence and application
Invitation letter describing the work, dates and location.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent prepares the specialised skills evidence. - Grant and travel
Arrive within the time allowed and leave when the work ends.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent explains the conditions.
Government charges from 1 July 2026
Paid to the Department of Home Affairs, not to us.
| Applicant or item | Charge (A$) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | A$535 |
| Family member 18 or over | A$535 |
| Family member under 18 | A$135 |
Check every charge in the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
Processing times
Home Affairs Global visa processing times. Read 22 October 2026. A guide only, not a promise.
| Short Stay Specialist | 50% in 8 days, 90% in 43 days |
|---|
Common refusal reasons
- Work not highly specialised or could be done locally.
- Work looks ongoing.
- Not a genuine temporary stay.
Document checklist
Tick items as you gather them. Your ticks stay on this device only.
- Application
Recent and upcoming changes
No recent changes are listed for this visa. Check the Home Affairs page for the latest information.
Talk it through before you apply.
The first 15 minutes are free and general. Personal advice starts after a written service agreement.
Information checked 22 October 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Rules and charges change; check the official sources before you act.