Australian Temporary Work Visa Process 2025 – Apply Now

Australia welcomes skilled professionals, seasonal workers, and temporary specialists from around the world. If you’re planning to work in Australia for a short period, the 6-month Temporary Work Visa is a practical option. Whether you’re a tradesperson, farmworker, hospitality professional, or project-based specialist, this visa allows you to contribute to Australia’s workforce while gaining valuable international experience.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: visa types, eligibility, documents, application steps, costs, tips, and common FAQs.

What Is the 6-Month Temporary Work Visa?

The 6-month temporary work visa is issued under either:

• Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482
• Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa – Subclass 400

These visas are designed to bring skilled workers into Australia for short-term roles that cannot be immediately filled by local workers. Some visa streams allow stays up to 6 months, especially for project-based or highly specialized work.

Types of Temporary Work Visas:

1. Subclass 400 – Short Stay Specialist

• Purpose: Highly specialized, short-term, non-ongoing work
• Duration: Usually up to 3 months; can extend to 6 months in rare cases
• Visa Support: Not always required
• Processing Time: 10–30 days

Example: An IT consultant brought in for a 2-month software deployment project.

2. Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (Short-Term Stream)

• Purpose: Fill temporary skill shortages in approved occupations
• Duration: 6 months to 4 years (depending on occupation and stream)
• Visa Support: Employer sponsorship required
• Processing Time: 1–3 months

Example: A hospitality worker sponsored for a 6-month peak tourist season.

Who Should Consider a 6-Month Work Visa?

• Seasonal farmworkers (fruit pickers, farmhands)
• Tradespeople for short-term projects
• IT specialists on temporary contracts
• Engineers working in infrastructure or mining projects
• Hospitality professionals (chefs, servers) during busy seasons
• Entertainment and cultural workers (for festivals or events)

Eligibility Criteria:

Eligibility varies slightly by visa subclass, but generally requires:

• Genuine Short Stay – Proof that your stay will be temporary and you plan to leave Australia at visa end.
• Skills or Job Offer – Must have:
  • Skills not readily available in Australia, or
  • A job offer from an approved employer.
• Employer Requirements (for sponsored visas) – Your employer must be approved and demonstrate they could not find an Australian citizen to fill the role.
• Health and Character – You must meet health requirements (medical exams may be required) and provide police clearance.
• English Proficiency – Some visa streams require basic English skills depending on the occupation.

Check Also: Australia Skills in Demand Work Visa

Documents Required:

Typically, applicants need:

• Valid passport (6–12 months minimum)
• Job offer or sponsorship letter
• Resume and qualifications
• Evidence of relevant experience
• Employment contract (if applicable)
• Medical certificate (if required)
• Police clearance certificate
• Statement explaining your short-term stay
• Financial documents proving you can support yourself

Always check subclass-specific requirements on the Australian Home Affairs website.

Understanding Short-Term Work Visa Australia:

A short-term work visa Australia is designed for individuals who want to work in Australia temporarily for up to two years. Common categories include:

• Subclass 400: For short-term, highly specialized work.
• Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage visa): For employers sponsoring skilled workers in shortage occupations.
• Subclass 457 (replaced by 482 in 2018): Previously used for temporary skilled workers.

These visas require applicants to meet specific skill, qualification, and health requirements.

Temporary Skilled Work Visa Australia:

A temporary skilled work visa Australia allows professionals to gain hands-on experience in their field while living in Australia. Key eligibility factors include:

• Relevant qualifications and work experience in the nominated occupation.
• English language proficiency.
• Sponsorship from an approved Australian employer for 482 visa applicants.

This visa is ideal for professionals looking to advance their careers and explore opportunities in Australia’s competitive workforce.

Australian Immigration Temporary Work Visa Rules:

Understanding Australian immigration temporary work visa rules is essential to avoid delays or refusal. Important rules include:

• Submitting a complete and accurate work permit application Australia.
• Meeting health and character requirements.
• Ensuring the sponsoring employer is approved and compliant with visa regulations.
• Adhering to the visa’s conditions, such as work location, occupation, and duration.

Failure to follow these rules can result in visa refusal or cancellation.

Work Permit Application Australia:

The work permit application Australia process typically involves:

• Securing a job offer from an eligible employer.
• Preparing documents like qualifications, employment history, and identification.
• Lodging the application online through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
• Paying the visa application fee and awaiting assessment.

Applicants must ensure all information is accurate to prevent processing delays.

Australian Temporary Work Visa Approval Tips:

To improve your chances of approval, consider these Australian temporary work visa approval tips:

• Choose an occupation on the approved skilled list.
• Provide thorough evidence of qualifications and work experience.
• Ensure your sponsoring employer is fully compliant with immigration requirements.
• Seek guidance from a registered migration agent if needed.

Following these steps helps streamline the process and increases your chances of a successful visa outcome.

Application Process:

• Choose the Appropriate Visa – Decide between Subclass 400 (short-stay specialist) or Subclass 482 (short-term skilled).
• Prepare Documents – Gather all necessary records, including employment contracts and proof of experience.
• Apply Online – Use ImmiAccount to submit your application, upload documents, and pay fees.
• Wait for Processing – Subclass 400: ~10–30 days; Subclass 482: ~1–3 months. You may be asked for biometrics or an interview.
• Receive Visa Decision – Your visa will specify start and end dates, employment conditions, and limitations.

Working Conditions and Rights:

Even short-term visa holders have legal protections under Australian law:

• Fair pay and working conditions
• Safe work environment
• Protection against discrimination or exploitation
• Access to support from the Fair Work Ombudsman

Report any abuse to the relevant authorities immediately.

Can You Extend This Visa?

• Subclass 400 visas cannot usually be extended beyond the initial period.
• Subclass 482 may allow longer stays or pathway to permanent residency if your role is on the Medium-Term Skills List.
• Always apply for a new visa before your current one expires if you plan to stay longer.

Costs:

Visa fees vary by subclass and nationality:

• Subclass 400: ~AUD 325
• Subclass 482 (Short-Term Stream): AUD 1,455+
• Additional costs may include medical exams, police clearance, and health insurance.

Challenges to Consider:

• Must strictly comply with visa conditions
• Limited options for extensions
• Close scrutiny of documentation
• No guaranteed pathway to permanent residency

Conclusion:

The 6-month Australian Temporary Work Visa offers a short-term, legal pathway for skilled professionals and seasonal workers to gain international experience. It provides workplace protections, clear application steps, and access to in-demand roles across industries. While extensions are limited, it’s an efficient way to contribute to Australia’s workforce and grow professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions: