This 2026 guide covers the full list of Subclass 408 activity categories, average lengths of stay, the latest 408 visa legislative updates, general rules for 408 eligibility and how True Blue Migration can assist.
Key points to note
- The COVID-19 Pandemic Event Stream has been permanently closed since 1 February 2024 (no new applications or extensions).
- AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 – Eligible accredited participants under the Australian Government Endorsed Events Stream pay a $0 Visa Application Charge (VAC) for the duration of the event (as at March 2026)
- Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 is now also recognised as an Australian Government Endorsed Event with a $0 Visa Application Charge (VAC) for qualifying 408 visa applicants.
- There is a Base 408 Visa Application charge (VAC) from AUD $430 for most streams for the main applicant and each adult family member
For some activities, a temporary activity sponsor charge of AUD $420 applies.
408 Visa Activity Categories (2026)
1. Australian Government Endorsed Events
Your stay is valid for the duration of the event up to 4 years. This is best for those participating in high-profile or major international events endorsed by the Australian government, such as athletes, officials, media and support staff. Immediate family is included, and a sponsor is required (generally the event organiser).
2. Special Program
Maximum stay up to 12 months. This is ideally suited to volunteer programs, cultural exchange and youth programs, like gap-year placements or international youth camps. Immediate family is included but you will need a sponsor.
3. Religious Work
This category allows a stay of up to two years for full-time religious workers such as clergy and ministers. Immediate family is included, and sponsorship through an Australian religious organisation is required.
4. Research Activities
This category is for researchers who are either part of or observing projects at Australian universities or research institutions. A sponsor is required, and immediate family is also included for a maximum stay of up to two years.
5. Invited for Other Social and Cultural Activities
There is a maximum stay of up to 3 months if you’re invited for community festivals, conferences or grassroots sporting events. Immediate family is included, and you’ll require a sponsor via invitation from an Australian organisation.
6. Sporting Activities
This allows a stay of up to two years and is best suited for elite athletes, coaches, and support staff for training, competing events or officiating. A sponsor is required, and immediate family is included.
7. Entertainment Activities
A maximum stay of two years for actors, musicians, film crews and live performance artists. Immediate family is included, and a sponsor is required.
8. Superyacht Crew
Superyacht crew are allowed a maximum stay of up to 12 months working on luxury private yachts cruising in Australian waters. A sponsor is required, and immediate family is not included.
9. Exchange Arrangements
You can stay up to two years in formal staff-exchange programs between overseas and Australian organisations. Immediate family is included, and a sponsor is required.
10. Domestic Work for Executives
For domestic staff employed by senior executives temporarily staying posted in Australia, such as nannies and housekeepers. A stay of up to two years with family included and sponsorship required.
General Rules for all categories in the 408 Visa
To be considered, all applicants for the subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa should generally;
- Have the skills and qualifications required for the proposed activity
- Be sponsored or invited by an approved Australian organisation (Temporary Activities Sponsor in most cases)
- Meet health and character requirements.
- Hold adequate health insurance for their stay in Australia.
- Have genuine temporary intent and leave Australia after the activity
Immediate family members (spouse and dependent children) are mostly allowed in 408 visa applications and may be able to work and/or study in Australia, depending on the stream.
How True Blue Migration Can Help With Your 408 Visa
Understanding the subclass 408 visa can be tricky, especially regarding sponsorship, evidence requirements and tight timeframes for big events like the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 or the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.
Our experienced registered migration agents manage 408 visa applications from start to finish and ensure all documentation is prepared in line with Department of Home Affairs (DHA) requirements.
We offer:
- A free initial visa assessment to check your 408 visa eligibility and recommend the most appropriate activity stream
- Guidance on gathering sponsor letters, invitations, contracts, and supporting evidence.
- Full management of your 408 visa application, including liaison with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and monitoring policy changes.
- Support to include family members and to meet any health or character requirements.
Get in touch with one of our experienced migration agents to help manage your 408 visa application from start to finish and ensure all documents are in line with Department of Home Affairs requirements.
Email: info@trubluemigration.com.
Phone: 03 9038 9070