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Subclass 403-Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa

This visa allows you to work in Australia as part of an international agreement or arrangement.
Ideal for workers, scholars, or cultural exchange participants.

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🧾 Visa Snapshot Block

Type: Temporary Visa

PR Pathway: No direct pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)

State Nomination Required:: Not applicable

Points Test Required: Not applicable

⏱️ Typical Processing Time: 3 to 6 months

Family Inclusion: Yes, family members can be included if they meet the visa criteria

Common Use: For individuals coming to Australia to work under an international agreement or multilateral arrangement.

🧭 Visa Overview & PR Benefits

The Subclass 403 Visa is designed for individuals who want to work in Australia under the terms of an international agreement or arrangement. This visa allows participants to contribute to Australia’s economy and culture, typically for temporary roles, without seeking permanent residency.

Full work rights for the duration of the visa

Access to Medicare (conditions apply)

Family members can join the applicant

Flexible conditions to work in Australia for a specified period

Why Apply for Subclass 403?

Allows you to work in Australia for a specified period while participating in international relations

Ideal for individuals who are sponsored under a bilateral or multilateral agreement

Family inclusion allowed for eligible applicants

A temporary solution for skilled workers, researchers, or cultural exchange participants

Eligibility Criteria & Points Test

Applicants for the Subclass 403 Visa must meet the following criteria:

Age: Under 45 years old

Sponsorship: Must be sponsored by a relevant organization, government, or authority as per the international agreement

Health & Character: Must meet health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs

English Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency may be required for certain activities (e.g., work or academic research)

Family Members: Eligible family members can be included in the application if they meet the visa conditions

🧮 Download Eligibility Checklist

Step-by-Step Guide for Subclass 403

1
Check eligibility for the Subclass 403 Visa
2
Obtain sponsorship under a relevant international agreement
3
Submit your application with required documents (e.g., sponsorship letter, passport, health check)
.
4
Complete health and character checks
5
Wait for visa approval from the Department of Home Affairs
6
Enter Australia and commence your approved activity

Common Mistakes
✅ Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Common Mistakes to Avoid ​​

Incomplete documentation (e.g., missing sponsorship letter or evidence of activity)

Incorrect ANZSCO codes or occupational information

Failure to provide clear details of the activity you will be engaged in

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Confirm eligibility with a registered migration agent

Submit all documents upfront

Double-check your evidence before submitting

Ensure that health checks and police clearances are valid

Family Members You Can Include

Family Members

Eligible family members can be included in your
Subclass 403 Visa application:

Spouse or De Facto Partner 

Dependent Children under 18 years

Children over 18 (if financially dependent on the student) 

Adopted or declared dependents

After Visa Grant​

Post-Visa Benefits:

Full work rights (conditions apply) ​

Access to Medicare

Eligibility for Permanent Residency or citizenship in future under other visa pathways

Freedom to live anywhere in Australia while on the visa

Required Documents – What You’ll Need ​

Primary Applicant

Passport

Health and character documents

English language test results (IELTS/PTE)

Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

Police check ​

Health check ​

Partner / Dependents ​

Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, de facto relationship evidence)

Health and character documents

💰 Fees & Processing Time

Visa FeeDetails & Fee (AUD)
🪪Primary Applicant$1,300 - $2,200
👥Additional Family Members:$1,000 - $2,000 (depending on age and relationship)
⏳Processing TimeSubclass 403: Typically 3–6 months, ddepending on specific activity and documentation

🧰 Tools & Downloads

For Subclass 858 Permanent Visa applicants, the following resources will assist you: 

Sponsorship Guide
Sponsorship Guide
Discover
Eligibility Checklist
Eligibility Checklist
Discover
Document Preparation Guide
Document Preparation Guide
Discover

❓Frequently Asked Questions

The Subclass 400 Visa is typically granted for up to 3 months, depending on the specialized activity. 

Yes, you can apply for the Subclass 400 Visa from within Australia, provided you meet all eligibility criteria. 

Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in your Subclass 400 application. 

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Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.