Planning to go to Australia for a short-term job, event, or cool project? Whether you’re volunteering, performing, doing research, or joining a special program — the Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) might be just what you need.
Let’s walk through this together in simple language to help you understand better. 🌟
🎬 What’s This Visa All About?
The Subclass 408 visa is for people who want to come to Australia for a short time to do like:
- Join a cultural or community event
- Do religious or sports-related work
- Volunteer
- Do short-term research
- Help out in a film or TV production
- Participate in government-approved projects.
👉 Depending on the situation, you may live for a few weeks or up to four years.
✅ Can I Apply for It?
You sure can, if you:
- Have an invitation or support from someone in Australia
- Are only coming for that one purpose
- Have enough money to live on while you’re here
- Pass the health and character checks
- Have health insurance for your stay
- Plan to leave when your visa ends
🎯 What Are They Looking For?
You don’t need to show your perfection, but they do want to see:
- You’re coming for the right reason
- You’re supported or invited by someone in Australia
- You have proof of what you’re doing
- You’re financially ready
- You’re healthy and honest
🪜 How Do I Apply? (Step-by-Step)
1. Pick the Right Stream
Select the category that best suits you — such as entertainment, research, sports, or volunteering.
2. Get Your Invitation or Support
You’ll need a letter from a group or person in Australia saying they’re inviting or supporting you.
3. Gather Your Documents
It includes your passport, proof of funds, health insurance, invitation letter, and other relevant documents.
4. Apply Online
Go to ImmiAccount and follow the steps to complete your application and upload the required documents.
5. Wait for a Decision
It typically takes 1 to 3 months. Be prepared in case they request additional documents.
🗂️ What Documents Do I Require?
Here is a simple documents checklist:
| ✅ What You Need | 📁 Format |
|---|---|
| A copy of your passport | PDF or JPEG |
| A letter of invitation or support | |
| Details of the event or activity | |
| Your CV or resume | PDF or Word |
| Proof of money (bank statements, payslips) | |
| Your health insurance certificate | |
| Police check (if required) |
Tip: Translate the non-English documents for a smooth verification process.
💸 How Much Does It Cost? And How Long Does It Take?
| 💰 Type | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Main visa application | $405 |
| Extra-person (18 or older) | $405 |
| Child under 18 | $105 |
| Processing time | 1 to 3 months |
⚠️ Some special streams (such as COVID-related work) may be free — check your stream!
💵 How Much Money Should I Show?
There’s no exact amount, but here’s a good rule:
- Around AUD 5,000–AUD 7,000 for your stay
- Extra if you’re bringing family
You can show:
- Bank statements
- Payslips
- A support letter from someone in Australia who will help with costs
🎁 What’s Good About This Visa?
- ✅ You can work or take part in something meaningful
- ✅ Stay for a short time or up to 4 years
- ✅ Bring your family (if eligible)
- ✅ No points test or age limits
- ✅ A great way to visit and contribute to Aussie life!
⚠️ Any Limitations?
Yep, here are a few:
- ❌ You can’t use this visa to stay forever
- ❌ You can’t change what you’re doing once you arrive
- 🔄 Extensions are limited
- 🧳 Travel conditions may apply
- 📌 You have to stick to the activity you were approved for
🌐 Where Can I Get Help?
| 📍 Who or What | 🔗 Link/Number |
|---|---|
| Official Info | Home Affairs Website |
| Application Portal | ImmiAccount |
| Connect with a Trusted Immigration Consultancy Services | Visas Adviser |
| Contact Details | +91 8744852222; info@VisasAdviser.com |
📄 Sample Document Info
| 📂 Document Type | 📝 Example Tip |
|---|---|
| Invitation Letter | Include full name, reason, dates, and host’s contact details |
| Bank Statement | Last 3–6 months showing savings or income |
| Insurance Document | Must cover your whole stay in Australia |
| CV/Resume | Highlight your relevant work or experience |
| Passport Copy | Clear and sharp scan of the main page |
❓ FAQs – Quick Answers
Q: Can I bring my family?
✅ Yes, if your stream allows it.
Q: Can I study on this visa?
📘 Informal study is usually okay — but study shouldn’t be your main reason.
Q: Can I apply from inside Australia?
Yes! You can apply from inside or outside Australia.
Q: Can I change my visa to a different visa later?
Maybe — if your visa doesn’t have a “No further stay” condition.
Q: Is it single or multiple entry?
Usually multiple, but always check your grant notice for details.
💡 Expert Tips
- 📌 Pick the stream that fits your activity — don’t guess
- 📩 Get a strong invitation letter
- 🗂️ Prepare documents early and keep them neat
- 📞 If unsure, talk to a registered migration agent
- ⏳ Don’t wait until the last minute — apply in advance
👋 Final Thought
The Temporary Activity Visa, under Subclass 408, is the perfect visa for a short-term visit to Australia. This visa is the door to engaging in fun activities, such as giving concerts, competing in sports, conducting research, or volunteering.
Following the procedures and being honest is vital to get your visa. With proper coordination and the correct documents, you can start your journey to Australia in no time.