Applying for this visa

It is important that the steps on this page are followed in order.

Step 1 - Approval of special program

The Australian organisation must apply for approval as a special program.
See: Step 1 - Australian Organisation Approval

Step 2 - Organisation applies to be a sponsor

Once the Australian organisation has been approved as a special program, they must complete an application to become a sponsor.
See: Step 2 - Australian Organisation Applies to be a Sponsor

Step 3 - Applicant applies for the visa

The visa applicant must apply for this visa.
See: Step 3 - Applicant Applies for the Visa

Renewing sponsorship

A sponsor may be approved for up to three years. To continue to sponsor people from overseas the sponsor will need to reapply before their sponsor approval ceases. To renew a sponsorship, follow step 2 above.

Renewing a visa

If while in Australia, the visa applicant decides to apply for a further visa to extend their stay, they will need to complete a new application and attach appropriate evidence.

If the visa applicant intends to apply for a further Special Program (subclass 416) visa they will need to be sponsored by an Australian organisation that has been approved as a special program sponsor.

Note: A further Special Program (subclass 416) visa will only be approved in exceptional circumstances.

More information

More information about the visa application process is available.
See: Information Form 1025i Making and processing visa applications ( 73KB PDF file)