Subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa
People coming for specific activities — entertainment, sport, religious work, research, or invited cultural/social programs.
The Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) is an Australian employer sponsored visa. This guide covers who the 408 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025–26 cost (≈ $415) and processing time (≈ 3–6 weeks), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions — in plain English.
Who the 408 visa is for
People coming for specific activities — entertainment, sport, religious work, research, or invited cultural/social programs.
No (temporary) — activity-based visa.
Subclass 408 eligibility criteria
- An invitation or sponsorship for the specific activity stream
- Evidence relevant to your stream (event, sport, religion, research)
- Adequate funds and genuine purpose
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 408 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) is ≈ $415, with an indicative processing time of ≈ 3–6 weeks. Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore or offshore |
| Length of stay | Varies by activity (up to ~2–4 years for some streams) |
| Work rights | Only the nominated activity |
| Study rights | Incidental only |
| Government charge | ≈ $415 |
| Processing time | ≈ 3–6 weeks |
| Pathway to PR | No (temporary) — activity-based visa. |
Pathway & next steps
No (temporary) — activity-based visa.
Many applicants also compare the 400 (Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa), the 407 (Training visa), the 482 (Skills in Demand visa (SID)). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 408 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 408 visa — frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 408 visa cost?
The Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) base application charge is ≈ $415. Government charges are indicative for 2025–26 and usually change on 1 July — always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 408 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ≈ 3–6 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 408 visa lead to permanent residence?
No (temporary) — activity-based visa.
Can I work on the subclass 408 visa?
Work rights on the Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408): Only the nominated activity.
Who can apply for the 408 visa?
People coming for specific activities — entertainment, sport, religious work, research, or invited cultural/social programs.