408 Visa: Artists, Crew & Athletes
Australia welcomes international talent for festivals, tours, film and television shoots, exhibitions, tournaments and special events. The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa allows eligible artists, technical crew and sporting professionals to undertake short term, non-ongoing work that supports Australia’s cultural and sports sectors. It is a flexible option for individuals and groups who need the right permission to perform, compete or deliver production work on a defined schedule.
The 408 framework covers several activity types that commonly apply to creatives and sports professionals. Typical entertainment activity includes live performances, touring concerts, theatre productions, cultural festivals, film and television work, commercial shoots and backstage or on-set crew roles. Sporting activity can include participation in elite competitions, invited training programs, coaching assignments, match officiating and accredited support roles such as physios or performance analysts. There are also activities for invited participants where a recognised Australian body has asked you to take part in a one-off event of national or international significance.
Most applicants will need an approved Australian sponsor or supporter who is a government agency, registered company, peak body, event promoter, club or production house. The sponsor confirms the genuine nature of the activity and that your skills are needed for the project. In some cases, a formal industry consultation or union endorsement is required, especially for entertainment work. We help your sponsor prepare the right letters and evidence so the file is consistent and easy to assess.
Key evidence usually includes a detailed itinerary with dates and venues, contracts or engagement letters, position descriptions for artists and crew, proof of qualifications or experience, and information about funding or remuneration. For athletes and teams, this may include competition invitations, governing body confirmation, selection documents and insurance arrangements. Health and character requirements apply, and private health cover is recommended for the visa period. Family members can often be included where appropriate, with evidence of relationship and financial support.
Timing matters. The Department expects non-ongoing, time-limited activity, so your visa period should match rehearsals, travel, bump-in and bump-out, principal dates and post-production where relevant. If plans change, we advise on the safest way to adjust your itinerary or seek a further stay if eligible. While working in Australia, you must follow visa conditions, including working only in the approved activity, respecting occupational health and safety requirements and complying with local tax and superannuation rules where they apply.
Our role is to keep the process clear. We map the correct 408 stream, brief your sponsor, prepare a document checklist, draft supporting statements and lodge a complete submission. We separate our professional fees from Department of Home Affairs charges and we keep you updated from acknowledgement to decision. We do not promise outcomes, but we do make sure your case is accurate, consistent and aligned to the visa rules so you can focus on the show, the shoot or the competition. If you are ready to bring your project or team to Australia, we will help you set a smooth path to the stage or the field.