Discover everything about the Temporary copyright (Subclass 400) — your fast-track solution for short-term work in Australia.
Introduction
Stay in Australia for a short period? if you have a highly skilled professional invited for a special project or a specialist providing services in a niche field, the temporary copyright short stay specialist subclass 400 offers a practical solution. This visa is designed to support foreign workers who need to engage in short-term, highly specialized work that’s not readily available in the Australian labor market. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the important—eligibility, application process, benefits, limitations, and more.
What Is the Temporary copyright(Subclass 400)?
The Temporary Work (short stay specialist visa information ) Visa (Subclass 400) is a temporary visa allowing individuals to work in Australia for up to 3 months, and in some exceptional cases, up to 6 months. It’s tailored for individuals who have specialized skills, knowledge, or experience that Australian businesses require for a short time.
Who Should Apply?
Eligible Applicants:
- Specialists in technical, scientific, or engineering roles
- Foreign workers participating in emergency or urgent work
- Professionals invited for highly specialized projects
- Individuals involved in non-ongoing government work
Not Suitable For:
- Ongoing work roles
- Jobs easily filled by Australian citizens or residents
- Internships or voluntary work (without specific eligibility)
Key Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Subclass 400 Visa, applicants must:
- Have a valid job offer or invitation from an Australian employer
- Demonstrate their work is highly specialized and short-term
- Show that the work cannot be reasonably filled by local workers
- Have sufficient funds to support themselves during the stay
- Meet health and character requirements
Additional Requirements (Depending on Case):
- Proof of qualifications and work experience
- A detailed job description or contract
- Health insurance arrangements
Application Process: Step-by-Step
1. Gather Your Documents
- copyright and ID proof
- Letter of offer/invitation from Australian employer
- Proof of skills or qualifications
- Health insurance and financial documents
2. Apply Online
- Fill out the application form for Subclass 400
- Attach all required documents and pay the visa fee (AUD 405)
3. Wait for Decision
- Most decisions are made within 14 to 30 days
- You may be contacted for additional documentation
Duration & Conditions
- Valid for up to 3 months (can be extended to 6 months with justification)
- Single-entry visa — you cannot leave and re-enter unless stated otherwise
- Must not engage in any other job than the one specified
- Can include family members under special circumstances
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Fast processing time
- Ideal for short-term, high-skill projects
- No long-term commitment required
- Includes travel to Australia for work
Cons:
- Limited to short-term assignments
- Cannot apply for permanent residency directly
- No pathway for extending beyond six months without a new application
FAQs
Q1: Can I include my spouse or children?
Yes, but only if your work is critical and requires it. Each case is assessed individually.
Q2: Can I switch employers in Australia on this visa?
No, you must only work for the employer mentioned in your application.
Q3: Is it possible to extend the Subclass 400 visa?
Extensions are rare and only granted in exceptional situations.
Conclusion
The Temporary copyright (Subclass 400) is a powerful tool for professionals seeking to engage in high-value, short-term assignments in Australia. It's especially valuable for businesses requiring specialized skills not easily found in the local market. If you think you qualify, don’t wait—start your application today.