When applying for a visa to enter Australia, it is essential to select the correct visa subclass. Applying for a visa which is not a “good fit” for the applicant’s circumstances may lead to delays in processing, the visa being refused and missing out on travelling to Australia on the date intended. For people travelling to Australia on a temporary basis, the relatively new Temporary Work (International Relations)(subclass 403) visa may be the most appropriate.
The Australian Temporary Work (International Relations)(subclass 403) visa was introduced at the end of last year to enable people from around the world to enter Australia via one of the following streams:
- In relation to a bilateral agreement (Government Agreement stream);
- To represent a foreign government or to teach a foreign language in an Australian school (Foreign Government Agency stream);
- To do domestic work for a diplomat (Domestic Worker stream);
- As a person with statutory privileges and immunities (Privileges and Immunities stream); and
- To participate in the program of seasonal work (Seasonal Worker Program stream).
Duration of Visa
The length of time that visa holders can remain in Australia as the holder of a Temporary Work (International Relations)(subclass 403) visa depends on the applicable stream. The following visa durations apply:
- Government Agreement stream: The visa is valid for a maximum of two years, or a shorter period approved by the relevant Foreign Ministry or government agency or the Australian signatory to the bilateral agreement.
- Foreign Government Agency stream: The visa is valid for a maximum of four years, or a shorter period approved by the relevant Foreign Ministry or government agency.
- Privileges and Immunities stream: The visa is valid for the period of the visa holder’s status as an international representative with privileges and immunities.
- Domestic Worker stream: The visa is valid for the duration of the employer’s posting to Australia.
- Seasonal Worker Program stream: Visa will be valid until a specified date, usually it will be the length of employment in Australia, and any additional time for to travel to and from the place of employment.
For more information on applying for a Temporary Work (International Relations)(subclass 403) visa, please feel free to contact the author by email at rebecca@hartmanlawyers.com.au or by telephone on +61 3 9021 0986 or +61 (0)423 701 747.
Disclaimer:
The information on this website is intended only to provide a summary and general overview on relevant matters. It is not intended to be comprehensive nor does it constitute legal advice. You are advised to seek legal or other professional advice before acting or relying on any of the content contained in this website.