408 Visa: Temporary Activity Visa – Sporting Activities Stream

At ThinkOz Migration Centre, we have assisted many overseas sports professionals—including fencing instructors, equestrian coaches, gymnastics coaches, and elite athletes—to obtain visas to work in Australia. We work closely with sporting organisations and clubs to support visa sponsorship and applications.

About the Sports Stream

The Subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa (Sports Stream) allows sports professionals to come to Australia to participate in high-level sporting activities, including coaching, training, competing, or instructing.

The visa is typically granted based on the duration of the sporting engagement and may be issued for:

  • Short-term stays (generally up to 3 months)

  • Longer-term stays (generally up to 2 years, depending on sponsorship and circumstances)

Short-Term 408 Visa (Up to 3 Months)

To be eligible, you generally need to:

  • Provide a letter of support from the relevant sporting organisation or governing body

  • Demonstrate you are coming to Australia for a genuine sporting purpose

  • Show you are a genuine temporary entrant

  • Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay

  • Meet health and character requirements

This visa is typically granted for the period of the sporting activity and becomes active when you enter Australia.

Long-Term 408 Visa (Up to 2 Years)

For longer stays, your sponsoring organisation must generally be an approved Temporary Activities Sponsor (TAS).

You must also:

  • Be invited or supported by a recognised sporting organisation or club

  • Demonstrate skills and experience relevant to your sporting role

  • Hold appropriate health insurance for the duration of your stay

  • Meet health and character requirements

  • Provide police clearances if requested

  • Satisfy any additional requirements requested by the Department

Applications can be made either in or outside Australia, depending on your circumstances.

Extensions may be possible in limited circumstances, depending on your activity and ongoing sponsorship.

Can Family Members Join You?

Yes. Eligible family members can be included in your application.

  • Your partner and dependent children may be granted visas as dependants

  • Some dependants may have work rights in Australia, depending on the visa conditions attached to their grant

What’s Next?

Want to know if you’re eligible?
Complete a free visa assessment with one of our experienced Registered Migration Agents at ThinkOz Migration Centre.