skilled migration visa australia, 189 subclass visa australia - VisaAdvisor
Home » Other Visas » Temporary Visas

Subclass 408 - Temporary Activity Visa

The Subclass 408 Visa allows individuals to come to Australia temporarily for specific activities such as work, training, or cultural exchange.

️ 🧮 Check My Eligibility

🔎 Visa Snapshot Block

Type: Temporary Visa

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

Points Test Required: Not applicable

State Nomination Required: Not Required​

Processing Time: 2 to 4 months (depending on specific activity stream)

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

Common Use:: For individuals coming to Australia temporarily to engage in specific activities such as work, training, or cultural exchange.

🧭 Visa Overview & PR Benefits

The Subclass 408 Visa allows individuals to come to Australia for specific short-term activities such as work, training, or participating in cultural exchange programs. This visa enables temporary residence in Australia but does not provide a direct pathway to Permanent Residency (PR). 

Work and study rights (depending on activity type and conditions)

Access to Medicare (under specific conditions)

Ability to sponsor family members

Freedom to live anywhere in Australia, subject to activity and visa conditions

Why Apply for Subclass 408?

Family inclusion allowed for eligible applicants

Ideal for individuals seeking to participate in cultural exchange, training, or work for a short period

Suitable for people who do not seek permanent residency but want to gain experience or contribute in Australia

Opportunity to engage in specific events or research for Australian organizations

✅ Eligibility Criteria & Points Test

To apply for the Subclass 408 Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age: Under 45 years old

Health & Character: Must meet the health and character requirements

Activity Requirement: Must be coming to participate in a specific work, training, or cultural exchange activity

English Proficiency: May be required depending on the activity type (e.g., work)

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

📥 Download Eligibility Checklist

🧭 Step-by-Step Guide for Subclass 408

1
Check eligibility for the Subclass 408 Visa
2
Obtain sponsorship from an approved Australian organization (if required)
3
Submit required documents (including sponsorship letter, health check, police clearance)
4
Complete health and character checks
5
Wait for visa approval
6
Engage in approved activity once the visa is granted

Common Mistakes & Tips

Common Mistakes to Avoid ​​

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

Expired health checks or police clearances

Incorrect ANZSCO codes or occupational information

Failing to submit clear details of the activity you will be engaged in

Tips for Strong 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

Spouse / de facto partner

Dependent Children under 18

Children over 18 (if financially dependent)

Adopted or declared dependents

Must be declared at time of application

Post-Visa Benefits

Once visa granted, you and your family can : 

Full work rights (conditions apply)

Access to Medicare

Eligibility for Permanent Residency or citizenship under other visa streams

Freedom to live anywhere in Australia while on the visa

Required Documents What You’ll Need

Here are the documents required for the Subclass 408 application:

Primary Applicant

Passport Copy ​

Health and character documents

English language test results (if required)

Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

Police check

Health check (if required)

Partner / Dependents

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

Health and character documents

💰 Visa Fees & Processing Times

TypeDetails
🪪 Visa Fees:Primary Applicant: $1,000 - $1,500
👥 Additional Family Members:$1,000 - $2,000 (depending on age and relationship)
⏳ Processing Time: Subclass 408:
Typically 3–6 months, depending on your specific activity and documentation

🧰 Tools & Downloads

Discover free tools to help you plan, prepare, and lodge your visa with confidence — including points calculators, checklists, and EOI planners built for Subclass 408 applicants.  

❓Frequently Asked Questions

The Subclass 408 Visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your approved activity, typically up to 2 years.Over 10 years due to the queue backlog.

Yes, you can apply for the Subclass 408 Visa from within Australia, as long as you meet the visa eligibility criteria.

Yes, your spouse and dependent children can be included in your Subclass 408 application. 

📞 Book a Free Consultation with a Migration Expert

Speak directly with a MARA-registered migration agent and have your Skilled Visa strategy explained step-by-step — at no cost.

  • 100% Free
  • No Obligation
  • Confidential Advice
📖 Book a Free Consultation

Why Trust Visa Advisor?

Choosing the right migration partner can make all the difference. 

 Here’s why Visa Advisor is the trusted choice

Expert Guidance

MARA-registered agents with years of experience simplify your migration journey.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront costs with no hidden fees—just honest advice.

Global Support

Flexible online and in-person consultations, wherever you are.

Smart Tools

Advanced visa finders and calculators to make decisions easier.

Proven Results

Trusted by clients for reliable, personalized migration support.

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.