Let’s talk about the current 6-month Australian Temporary Work Visa process. I have prepared this guide with updated information as of August 2025. Whether you are a professional looking for short term work or an employer needing skilled help this guide will explain the Subclass 400 visa in clear and simple terms.
Details about 6-month Australian Temporary Work Visa
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Subclass | 400 – Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) |
| Stay Duration | Usually up to 3 weeks and up to 6 months in special cases |
| Skills Required | Highly specialized and rare in Australia |
| Processing Time | Around 3 to 4 weeks but can be faster |
| Extensions | Not allowed from within Australia |
| Fee Estimate | Around AUD 415 |
What Is the Subclass 400 Visa
The Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (Subclass 400) is for people with highly specialized skills or knowledge not readily available in Australia. It covers short term non ongoing work often lasting up to six months.
Read More: Superannuation for Temporary Visa Holders 2025
Who Qualifies for This Visa
To qualify you need
- Highly specialized skills or experience that Australian businesses cannot easily find
- To demonstrate that your work is non-ongoing and will likely finish within six months
How Long Can You Stay
Usually the visa allows a stay of up to 3 weeks but in some cases it can be extended to up to six months after your first entry if you provide a strong business case.
Recent Policy Changes
Recent updates have made six-month stays the exception rather than the rule. Authorities now expect most applicants to plan for shorter visits of about three months unless there are exceptional circumstances.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Gather your documents
- Passport
- Work invitation or contract
- Proof of skills and experience
- Evidence of financial support and health insurance
- Set up an ImmiAccount and apply online. You must apply while outside Australia and remain outside until the decision is made
- Pay the visa fee
- Around AUD 415 (subject to change)
- Submit your application with all required documents
Processing Times
Processing usually takes 3 to 4 weeks though in some cases it can be as quick as 5 working days.
What You Can and Cannot Do
With this visa you can
- Work in a highly specialized role in Australia
- Bring your dependents though they cannot work or study except basic language training
You cannot
- Stay beyond the approved period
- Extend your stay from within Australia
- Start a new application while in Australia
Why Use This Visa Pathway
This visa is ideal for project based specialists who are
- Invited to work on short specialized tasks
- Not planning to move permanently
- Able to make a strong case for why their skills are needed and cannot be found locally
Practical Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight how your unique skills will help an Australian business
- Clearly explain why the work is non-ongoing and suitable for a short term visa
- Prepare a strong business case if applying for up to six months
- Apply well before your travel date to allow for processing
Other Visa Options for Short Term Work
If your work does not fit the 400 visa consider
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa – Subclass 482 for longer stays and employer sponsorship
- Skills in Demand visa which replaced the subclass 482 in December 2024 though some delays have been reported under the new system
Conclusion
The Subclass 400 Temporary Work Visa in 2025 is a good option for specialists who want to work in Australia for short periods. While six month stays are rare a strong case and unique skills can make them possible. Apply via ImmiAccount plan ahead and prepare your documents carefully. This visa is perfect for expert non-ongoing support so make your application strong and your chances of approval will increase.
