Subclass 408 Visa: Temporary Activity
Short-term stays for specific activities: invited participants, research, sport, entertainment, religious work and special programs.
Reviewed by Muskaan Ahuja, Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2418455) · Last reviewed
In short: The Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) is for people coming to Australia for a specific short-term activity, such as an invited event, research, sport, entertainment, religious work or an approved special program. Most activities need a sponsor or supporting organisation, and the length of stay depends on the activity.
Who this visa suits
- Invited speakers and event participants
- Researchers and academic visitors
- Entertainers, sportspeople and religious workers
| Invited participant | Events or activities by invitation from an Australian organisation |
|---|---|
| Research | Observing or taking part in research at an Australian institution |
| Sport and entertainment | Competing, training or performing |
| Religious work | Full-time religious work with a religious organisation |
| Special programs | Approved cultural and youth exchange programs |
Official information: Temporary Activity visa (408). Part of our Training visa services.
Requirements
The main requirements. We check each one against your situation before you apply.
A qualifying activity
One of the approved activity types.
Sponsor or supporter
For most activities.
Temporary stay
Genuine intention to stay temporarily.
Health insurance
Adequate cover for your stay.
Health & character
Checks for all applicants.
Funds
Enough to support yourself.
Document checklist
Most applications need the following. Your exact list depends on your circumstances; we give you a personalised checklist.
- Invitation or sponsor letter describing the activity
- Evidence of your skills or role in the activity
- Passport, police and health checks
- Health insurance
- Evidence of funds
Costs
| Visa | Main applicant | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Activity (408) | AUD 500–600* | Main applicant; children pay less. |
*Indicative range only. Government visa charges change often (usually each 1 July) and depend on your circumstances and family members. Your total cost may also include our professional service fee and other costs such as health checks, police certificates, skills assessments and translations. Terms and conditions apply. Confirm the current amount for your family in the official Visa Pricing Estimator, or ask us for a fixed written quote before any work starts.
Step by step
- Identify the activity typeEach has different rules.
- Sponsor or supporterArrange the support letter or sponsorship.
- Prepare evidenceInvitation, role and funds.
- Lodge the applicationUsually online.
- DecisionAfter checks.
- Complete the activityWithin the visa conditions.
Common mistakes and refusal reasons
- Choosing the wrong activity type
- Vague invitation letters
- Planning work outside the activity
- Insufficient health insurance
For structured training, see the 407; for tourism or business visits, the 600.
Recent changes
1 July 2026: The charge rose to AUD 500–600* for the main applicant.
Questions
Can’t see your question? Ask a registered migration agent in a free 15-minute consultation.
Book a free consultationHow long can I stay on a 408?+
Do I need a sponsor?+
Can I bring family?+
Can I work?+
Talk to us about your visa.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with a registered migration agent (MARN 2418455).
- Registered migration agentMuskaan Ahuja, MARN 2418455
- Free 15-minute consultationBy phone, online or at our Hawthorn office
- Reply within 1 business dayCall, WhatsApp or the Free Profile Assessment
- Fixed-fee quote in writingBefore any work starts, no hidden charges