Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) - Entertainment Activities

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) – Entertainment Activities, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a supporter if applying for the visa in Australia or a sponsor if applying outside of Australia and intending to stay for more than 3 months
• Have a contract or other proof of your activity in Australia
• Be able to support yourself and any dependents during your stay in Australia
• Intend to work in an eligible entertainment activity category
• Meet the health and character requirements
• Have adequate health insurance
• Be a genuine temporary entrant
• Have paid back any debt to the Australian government
• Sign the Australian values statement
• Declare you have not paid for visa sponsorship
• Not have had a visa cancelled or a previous application refused in Australia

Entertainment Activity Categories

To apply for the Temporary Activity Visa (subclass 408) under the Entertainment Activities Stream, you must apply under one of the following categories. Each category is tailored to specific roles and types of productions within the entertainment industry:

Performing in a Film or Television Production Subsidised by Government:

• This category is for individuals who will be performing in a film or television production that receives financial support or subsidies from the Australian government. Such productions often aim to promote cultural, artistic, or educational content and contribute to the Australian media landscape.

• Performing in a Film or Television Production Not Subsidised by Government:
  • This category is for performers involved in commercial film or television productions that do not receive government subsidies. These can include independent films, commercial television series, or other privately funded media projects.
• Performing Other Than in Film or Television:
  • This category covers performers engaged in live entertainment activities outside the film and television industry. It includes stage actors, musicians, dancers, circus performers, and other artists involved in live performances, such as theatre productions, concerts, festivals, and other public or private events.
• Working as Production Staff:
  • This category is for individuals working behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. It includes roles such as directors, producers, writers, costume designers, set designers, sound engineers, lighting technicians, camera operators, and other essential production personnel who contribute to the creation and execution of entertainment productions.
• Working as Support Staff for an Entertainer or Group of Entertainers:
  • This category is for support personnel who assist entertainers or groups of entertainers. It includes roles such as personal assistants, make-up artists, hairdressers, choreographers, vocal coaches, and other professionals who provide the necessary support to ensure the performers deliver their best work.
• Working as a Performer or Support Staff for a Non-Profit Engagement:
  • This category is for individuals involved in entertainment activities for non-profit organisations. It includes performers and support staff working on projects for charitable events, community theatre, educational outreach programs, or other non-profit engagements that aim to benefit the community or raise awareness for various causes.
• Working on a Documentary or Commercial for an Overseas Market:
  • This category is for professionals working on documentary films or commercials intended for distribution or broadcast in overseas markets. It includes directors, producers, cinematographers, editors, and other crew members involved in creating content that highlights Australian culture, wildlife, tourism, or other subjects of interest to an international audience.

Applying Under the Appropriate Category

When applying for the Temporary Activity Visa (subclass 408) – Entertainment Activities Stream, it is crucial to select the category that best fits your intended role and the nature of the production. Each category has specific requirements and documentation needed to support your application. Ensuring that you apply under the correct category will facilitate the processing of your visa and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

This comprehensive visa stream provides a pathway for diverse talent within the entertainment industry to contribute their skills and expertise to Australian productions, enriching the cultural and creative landscape of Australia.

Activities Permitted for 408 Temporary Activity (Entertainment) Visa Holders

Holders of a 408 Temporary Activity (Entertainment) Visa can engage in various temporary activities within the Australian entertainment industry. These activities include:

• Participating in Film, Television, or Theatre Productions: This can encompass performing in live theatre productions, concerts, music festivals, or even undertaking a stand-up comedy tour.
• Performing as a Musician, Artist, or Entertainer: Engage in live performances, recording sessions, or any artistic endeavours as a professional performer.
• Participating in a Cultural Exchange Program: Take part in cultural exchange programs as an artist or entertainer, contributing to international cultural understanding.
• Providing Support Services to a Production Crew or Entertainment group: This includes roles such as lighting designer, sound engineer, guitar technician, production manager, auto-tune specialist, part of an entourage, personal assistants, personal trainers, chefs, make-up artists, stylists, and other support personnel essential for the success of the entertainment project.
• Act as Circus Performer or Animal Handler: Perform in circus acts or manage animals used in entertainment performances.
• Work on a Documentary or Commercials for an Overseas Market: Involves roles such as documentary presenters and international celebrities appearing in commercials aimed at overseas audiences.

The specific activities a 408 visa holder can engage in will be determined by the terms and conditions outlined in their visa.

Application Process

1st Step: Book a Consultation with a Registered Migration Agent

If you want to apply for the Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) – Entertainment Activities, our registered migration consultants can help you navigate the application process from start to finish. We simplify the process for all entertainers, their crew, and family members to obtain the visa. Our experts provide guidance, assistance, and ongoing support throughout the application process, making it seamless.

Book a consultation