How this Visa Works
On this page
This visa offers business people, delegations and Australian sponsors a streamlined visa processing service to make a short business visit to Australia. A sponsor can sponsor several business visitors at the same time.
The table below summarises the responsibilities of the sponsor and the business visitor.
| Who | Description of Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Business visitor |
|
| Sponsor |
|
Security bond
In most cases a security bond is not required. However, the sponsor may be requested to lodge a security bond for a business visitor and their family members. The amount of the security bond is determined on a case-by-case basis and is generally between AUD$5,000 and AUD$15,000 per person. The sponsor nominates a person to lodge the security bond. The department advises the nominated person in writing if the security bond is required.
The security bond is returned after the business visitor departs Australia within the validity of their visa. If the business visitor fails to comply with any of the visa conditons, the bond may be forfeited.
Notes:
- A third party who is not the sponsor, can provide the security bond, if they are 18 years of age or older.
- Having a sponsor does not guarantee that the visa will be granted. Each business visitor must meet all the eligibility requirements.
Working
Work is generally not allowed, however, you may be allowed to engage in limited work if for example it is highly specialised and non-ongoing (generally less than six (6) weeks).
The business visitor cannot undertake work that can be done by an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
See: Workers
For more information about work rights on this visa, contact an office of the department.
See: Immigration Offices outside Australia
Bringing family
Business visitors can include family members in their visa application. Family members are their spouse and dependent children. Family members are not able to work in Australia.
See: Business (Short Stay) Visa Definitions
Studying
A business visitor and their family members cannot undertake a course of study that leads to a formal primary, secondary or higher education qualification. Other limited studies are allowed.
Health insurance
It is recommended that business visitors take out health insurance for themself and their family members to cover their time in Australia. They will not be covered by Australia's national health scheme, unless their country has a reciprocal health care agreement with Australia. Reciprocal medical arrangements exist with some countries. These are explained on the Medicare Australia website.
See: Medicare Australia
Visa validity period
A business visitor and their family members can stay in Australia for three months from the date they first enter Australia. The dates will be specified on the visa label in their passport and in the visa grant letter. The visa may be granted for a single entry or multiple entries to Australia.
Extending your stay
A business visitor cannot extend this visa after they arrive in Australia. If they need to stay longer than three months for business reasons, they should apply for the Business (Long Stay) visa. The Business (Long Stay) visa is valid for between three months and four years.
See: Workers
Other visa options
Business
A business visitor should apply for a Business (Short Stay) visa (subclass 456) if they:
- do not have a sponsor in Australia
- are not eligible to apply for an Business Electronic Travel Authority
and - intend to visit Australia for up to three months.
See: Visitors > Business
Doctors
If a person is coming to Australia to work as a doctor, they should apply for a medical practitioner's visa.
See: Doctors