Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa ( Subclass 403 Visa)

If you are planning to immigrate to Australia for work under a formal international agreement or as part of diplomatic or government-related duties, the Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa – Subclass 403 is designed for you. This visa supports Australia's commitment to international partnerships, foreign relations, and seasonal employment programs.

At Cross Border Education, we specialize in assisting professionals, diplomats, government officials, and seasonal workers to navigate the complex visa application process. With our expertise, you can confidently start your Australian journey under the right visa stream tailored to your purpose.

What is the Subclass 403 Visa?

The Subclass 403 visa is a temporary work visa granted to individuals who are in Australia to:

• Fulfill roles under a government-to-government agreement
• Represent foreign government agencies
• Provide domestic assistance to diplomatic staff
• Participate in seasonal worker programs
• Perform work associated with international privileges and immunities

This visa is ideal for those whose role is directly linked to international diplomacy, government collaboration, or workforce assistance initiatives. It allows for temporary stay while supporting international goodwill and economic cooperation.

Streams Under the Subclass 403 Visa

The Subclass 403 visa is divided into six distinct streams. Each stream caters to a specific purpose and has different eligibility requirements.

1. Government Agreement Stream: This stream is for individuals entering Australia under a bilateral agreement between the Australian Government and a foreign government or organization. Common roles include:

• Technical advisers
• Development officers
• Aid workers

2. Foreign Government Agency Stream: Allows employees of foreign governments to work in Australia. This includes:

• Government officers on diplomatic assignments
• Administrative or technical staff

3. Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular) Stream: This is designed for foreign diplomats or consular officials who wish to bring a domestic worker (like a housekeeper or caregiver) to Australia. Key conditions include:

• Employment must be full-time
• The worker must be from the same country as the diplomat

4. Privileges and Immunities Stream: This grants entry to individuals who are entitled to diplomatic privileges and immunities under international law. Common applicants include:

• Representatives of international organizations (like the UN)
• Staff covered under diplomatic conventions

5. Seasonal Worker Program Stream: It is a part of Australia’s effort to support the agricultural and hospitality sectors. Workers from Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste are eligible for seasonal work opportunities.

6. Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme Stream: This stream allows citizens from Pacific and Timor-Leste countries to work in hospitality, aged care, meat processing, and agriculture for a longer duration (up to 4 years for some jobs).

Key Features of Subclass 403 Visa

The key features of the Subclass 403 Visa are as follows:

• Temporary stay in Australia, ranging from a few months to four years, depending on the stream
• Multiple entries permitted in most streams
• Option to include family members (only in certain streams)
• Legally work in Australia in accordance with the conditions of your stream
• Access Australia’s healthcare system (Medicare) only in specific cases

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for a Subclass 403 visa, you must:

• Be sponsored by an eligible Australian employer or government body
• Meet character and health requirements
• Hold a valid passport
• Genuinely intend to stay temporarily for the intended purpose
• Be outside or inside Australia during the time of application (depends on the stream)
• Comply with Australian laws and visa conditions

Each stream has additional documentation requirements. At Cross Border Education, we help you understand and compile the right set of documents for a successful application.

Documents Required for Subclass 403 Visa

The documents required for Subclass 403 are as follows:

• Passport and identity documents
• Letter of support/sponsorship from government agency or employer
• Police clearance certificates
• Health examination results
• Employment contract (for seasonal/domestic workers)
• Proof of diplomatic status (if applicable)
• Financial evidence to support stay (in some streams)

Processing Time and Cost of Subclass 403 Visa 

The average processing time for a Subclass 403 visa varies based on the stream and the complexity of the application. It can range from 2 weeks to 4 months. The visa application fee is as follows:

• Main applicant: AUD $325 (Varies by stream)
• Additional applicants (spouse/children): Additional charges apply

Why Choose Cross Border Education?

Knowing Australian visa subclasses can be challenging. At Cross Border Education, we provide:

• Expert consultation based on your stream and nationality
• Accurate documentation checklist tailored to your needs
• Step-by-step assistance throughout your application
• High visa approval success rate
• Updates on changes in immigration laws
• Fast-track processing guidance 

We are one of the leading consultants helping people immigrate to Australia smoothly—whether it’s for temporary work, international cooperation, or long-term PR goals.

Conclusion 

The Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa – Subclass 403 is a temporary visa that allows individuals to immigrate to Australia for work that supports international relations, government agreements, or seasonal employment. It is divided into six streams, including the Government Agreement, Foreign Government Agency, Domestic Worker for Diplomats, Privileges and Immunities, Seasonal Worker Program, and Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme. 

Each stream serves a unique purpose and has specific eligibility requirements. The visa offers benefits such as legal work rights, multiple-entry permission, and, in some cases, the ability to include family members. At Cross Border Education, we provide expert assistance throughout the visa application process, helping clients gather documentation, meet eligibility criteria, and navigate the system efficiently.