How this Visa Works
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This visa allows academics currently employed by academic or research institutions overseas to be involved in research projects in Australia after being invited by an Australian tertiary institution or research organisation.
If you are outside Australia when you apply, you must be outside Australia when the visa is granted. If you are in Australia when you apply, you must be in Australia when the visa is granted.
Visa validity period
You can stay in Australia for a maximum of 12 months or for the period of stay covered in the invitation, whichever is the earlier date.
Extending your stay in Australia
You can extend your stay by applying for a further Visiting Academic visa. However, you must have a genuine reason for extending your stay and you may need to provide the following evidence:
- a further invitation from the educational institution or research organisation
- continuing employment as an academic in the overseas country
- continuation of leave from your work (if appropriate)
- continuing receipt of a salary in the overseas country (if appropriate)
- a guarantee of employment on return to the overseas country (if appropriate)
- reasons why the invitation to visit the Australian institution to observe or participate in research has been extended.
Bringing family
The following people may be included in your application:
- your spouse
- your or your spouse's dependent children
- other dependent relatives
Other visa options
If you are a student who wants to obtain an Australian award, or qualification, you should apply for a Student visa.
See: Students
If you are an academic receiving remuneration (other than a contribution towards living and travel expenses) from the inviting institution, or you are an academic who will teach and/or lecture in Australia, you should be assessed against a different visa.
See:
Temporary Business (Long Stay) visa (Subclass 457)
Educational visa (Subclass 418)
If you are a student who wants to undertake research in Australia that is credited towards an award or qualification in your home country, you should apply for an Occupational Trainee visa.
If you are a recent PhD graduate and wish to enhance your skills and establish your academic credentials, an Occupational Trainee visa may be a more appropriate visa.
See: Occupational Trainee visa (Subclass 442)