Australia has implemented stricter measures for one of its temporary visas, the subclass 400 Short Stay Specialist visa. A move driven by the need to protect local employment and prevent visa system abuse.

The updated rules introduce more stringent conditions for applicants, reinforcing the visa’s purpose for short-term, specialized work.

According to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, a temporary work visa lets one come to Australia to work on a temporary basis.

There might be visa conditions on your visa that only allow specific work, or work with a certain employer.

The Highly specialised work stream of this subclass 400 visa lets you do short-term, highly specialised work in Australia.

One must have the required skills, knowledge or experience that can help Australian business and can’t reasonably be found in Australia to be qualified for its use.

It is important to note that one can only do the work or activities for which your visa was granted.

Changes to Subclass 400 Visa Rules 

Reports from TravelBiz relate that the Department of Home Affairs will now implement stricter assessments for visa applications.

The changes intend to ensure that the subclass 400 visa is not misused as a substitute for the subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa, which is designed for longer-term employment.

1. Maximum Stay Reduced:

Visa holders can now stay in Australia for a maximum of three months within any 12-month period.

Previously, there were provisions for extending this visa to six months depending on individual circumstances, but this option has been eliminated.

2. No Re-entry Within 12 Months:  

A visa holder who leaves Australia before completing the full three-month stay, cannot return within the same 12-month period. This rule is designed to limit back-to-back entries and enforce the short-term nature of the visa.

3. No Multiple Applications

The option to submit multiple subclass 400 visa applications within a single year has been removed.

Visa holders must now use the full duration granted on their initial visa before applying again. TravelBiz notes that this policy change is essential to ensure that applicants fully engage with their initial visa conditions before seeking further access.

What To Know 

• The Australian government has implemented these measures to stop the subclass 400 visa from being used for longer work that is meant for the subclass 482 visa.
• These restrictions and increased review of applications aim to protect jobs for local workers.
• Those seeking a subclass 400 visa must plan their work schedules carefully to adhere to the new rules. For longer stays, applicants should explore alternative visa options, such as the subclass 482 visa.
• This means that individuals applying for a subclass 400 visa need to organize their work plans to comply with the new regulations. If they need to stay longer in Australia, they should consider other visa options, like the subclass 482 visa, which allows for longer work periods.

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