Hey there! So, you’ve got a special job offer or an official opportunity to work in Australia. That’s exciting!
Suppose you are coming to Australia for government work, working in an international organisation, or helping a diplomat. Then, the Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa, under Subclass 403, is the perfect visa for you.
Let’s learn about it more in a simple way to understand better:
👀 What’s This Visa About?
The Subclass 403 visa allows you to work in Australia for a temporary time in a specific job, such as:
- Government-to-government agreements
- Foreign government staff
- Seasonal farm or regional work
- Domestic help for diplomats
- Work with international organisations (like embassies or the UN)
So, if your job is related to any “official” or “international”, then this visa is for you.
✅ Who Can Apply?
This visa has five different streams. People having one of these streams are only eligible to apply for this visa.
1. Government Agreement Stream
👉 You’re coming under an agreement between Australia and another country (like a research project, technical training, or aid program).
2. Foreign Government Agency Stream
👉 You’re working for a foreign government in Australia, but you’re not a diplomat.
3. Domestic Worker Stream
👉 You’ll be helping out in the home of a diplomat (like a cook, cleaner, or nanny). You must be at least 18 and have a written job agreement.
4. Privileges and Immunities Stream
👉 You work for an international organisation, such as the United Nations or a foreign embassy, that has special legal status in Australia.
5. Seasonal Worker (PALM Scheme)
👉 You’re from a Pacific Island nation or Timor-Leste and doing short-term farm, hospitality, or regional work. The relevant government agency must approve your employer.
📝 Basic Eligibility
To apply, you should:
- Have a genuine reason to work temporarily
- Be sponsored or invited by a relevant organisation
- Meet health and character requirements
- Not having visa issues or cancellations from the past
- Show you have enough funds (unless your sponsor covers you)
🪜 Step-by-Step Process
Let’s make this as straightforward as possible:
Step 1: Pick Your Stream
Select the stream that could be best for you.
Step 2: Get Sponsored
You need someone to sponsor you, such as a government agency, an organisation, or an approved employer.
Step 3: Gather Your Docs
Have your passport, job letter, sponsor documents, and proof of funds ready.
Step 4: Apply Online
Visit the “immi.homeaffairs.gov.au” website and submit your application through ImmiAccount.
Step 5: Pay the Fee
Most streams cost AUD 355 per person (some are free—see below).
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
They may request additional information, medical checks, or police clearances before making a decision.
📦 Document Checklist
Here’s what you’ll likely need:
- ✅ passport (valid, of course)
- ✅ Job offer or employment agreement
- ✅ Sponsor or nomination letter
- ✅ Proof of funds, such as bank statements or a sponsor letter
- ✅ Police clearance (if asked)
- ✅ Health exam (if required)
💸 Visa Fees & Time to Process
| Stream | Fee (AUD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Government Agreement | $355 | 2–5 months |
| Foreign Government Agency | $355 | 3–6 months |
| Privileges & Immunities | $0 (Free) | 1–4 months |
| Seasonal Worker (PALM) | $355 | 1–2 months |
| Domestic Worker (Diplomats) | $355 | 2–5 months |
⌛ Tip: Apply early, just in case things take a little longer.
💰 How Much Money Should You Have?
There’s no fixed number, but if you’re paying your way, make sure you’ve got enough for:
- Return flights
- Accommodation
- Food and daily expenses
💡 Having around AUD 5,000–7,000 in your bank account is a good and safe amount to show.
👍 Why This Visa Is Great
- You get to work legally in Australia
- Gain international job experience
- Bring your partner or kids (in most cases)
- No English test or points test is needed
- Stay for up to 2 years (depending on your stream)
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind
- It’s a temporary visa only—not a pathway to PR
- You must stick to your job and the employer listed on your visa
- Changing jobs or roles is not allowed unless approved
- Once your visa expires, you’ll need to leave or apply for a different one
📞 Where to Get Help
Here are some helpful links and contacts:
🔗 Subclass 403 Visa Info (Official)
📞 Connect with a Trusted Immigration Consultancy Services: Visas Adviser
📬 Contact Details: +91 8744852222; info@visasAdviser.com
📂 Sample Documents (Quick Guide)
| Document Type | What It Should Include |
|---|---|
| Job Letter | Job title, pay, contract dates, duties, employer info |
| Bank Statement | At least 3–6 months of history, in your name |
| Police Certificate | Issued by your home country (translated if needed) |
| Health Report | From an approved Australian panel doctor |
❓ FAQ Time
Q: Can I bring my family?
Yep! Most streams allow you to include a partner or kids. Just check your stream.
Q: Can I switch jobs while in Australia?
Not really. This visa is only for the specific job and the sponsor who nominated you.
Q: Can I get permanent residency through this visa?
Nope. This visa is for temporary work only. If you want to pursue permanent residency, you will need to explore other visa options.
Q: Can I apply from inside Australia?
Yes, but only for some streams. It’s always safer to apply from outside Australia unless the stream allows it.
👩🏫 Expert Advice
- 📌 You need to select the stream according to the eligibility
- 🧾 Keep your documents neat and ready before applying.
- 💬 Visit a migration consultancy service if you find it complex.
- 🚨 Don’t stay more than the given time or break the visa’s terms and conditions to avoid any consequences
- 💻 Keep checking your ImmiAccount for new updates and further inquiries.
🌟 Final Words
The Subclass 403 visa is all about official, short-term work in Australia. Whether you are part of a seasonal work program, a government exchange, or working for a diplomat, this visa is just for you.
Know about yourself, choose an appropriate stream, collect your documents, and apply online. We are here to help you process the journey to Australia smoothly.