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Australia visa subclass 408 Religious worker stream

  • Writer: amardeep ransi
    amardeep ransi
  • Sep 26, 2024
  • 2 min read


Australia Visa Subclass 408 – Religious Worker Stream


The Australia Subclass 408 (Temporary Activity Visa) under the Religious Worker Stream is designed for individuals who wish to engage in full-time religious work in Australia. This visa allows religious workers, such as ministers, spiritual leaders, or members of religious organizations, to come to Australia temporarily to perform religious duties and activities. Here's what you need to know:

Key Features:


  • Work in Australia: This visa allows religious workers to engage in full-time religious work, which may include preaching, pastoral care, community service, and other related duties.

  • Stay Duration: Religious workers can stay in Australia for the period of the activity or up to two years, depending on the circumstances.

  • Family Inclusion: You can include family members (spouse and dependent children) in your application, allowing them to accompany you to Australia.

  • Multiple Entries: The visa grants multiple entry rights, allowing visa holders to travel in and out of Australia during their stay.


Eligibility Criteria:


  1. Sponsorship by a Religious Organization: Applicants must be sponsored by an Australian religious organization that is actively involved in religious activities.

  2. Genuine Temporary Stay: Applicants must demonstrate their intention to stay temporarily in Australia to undertake religious work.

  3. Relevant Experience: Applicants must have the appropriate skills and experience to perform the intended religious activities.

  4. Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet the health and character requirements as specified by the Australian government.


Application Process:


  1. Sponsorship and Nomination: The sponsoring religious organization must lodge a sponsorship application and nominate the applicant for the visa.

  2. Visa Application: Once the sponsorship is approved, the applicant can submit their visa application along with all necessary documents, including proof of sponsorship, relevant qualifications, and evidence of the religious work to be undertaken.

  3. Processing Time: Visa processing times can vary, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.


Benefits of the Subclass 408 Religious Worker Stream:


  • Engage in meaningful religious work in Australia.

  • Contribute to the spiritual and community well-being of local congregations.

  • Experience the rich diversity and culture of Australia while performing religious duties.


Important Considerations:


  • Visa holders must adhere to the conditions of their visa, including remaining engaged in religious work as specified in their visa application.

  • The visa does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency but allows for extensions if required.



At Hatton Cross Immigration Services, we assist religious workers and organizations in navigating the application process, ensuring compliance with Australian immigration laws. Contact us today to get expert advice and guidance on applying for the Subclass 408 Religious Worker Visa.


 
 
 

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