Navigate International Affairs: Subclass 403 Visa for Diplomatic and Governmental Visits!

A subclass 403 visa for international relations is for those visiting Australia under approved arrangements between the Australian government and other nations or international agencies. This visa category has different substreams, each of which has its eligibility criteria and requirements.
01
Government-to-Government Stream
For foreign public officials, employees or employees in Australia under a signed agreement between their government and the Australian government.
02
Foreign Government Agency Stream
This is for foreign government agency employees traveling to Australia for official business under a formal bilateral agreement.
03
Worker Domestic (Diplomatic or Consular) Stream
This is for domestic workers of eligible foreign government officials posted to Australia.
04
Special Privileges and Immunities Treatment Stream
The treatment stream is for foreign government representatives with privileges and immunities under international law.
05
Seasonal worker visa stream
For workers from Pacific countries who come to Australia under the Seasonal Worker Program.
06
Pacific Labour Scheme Stream
This stream is for workers from Pacific countries and Timor-Leste who will be working in Australia under the Pacific Labour Scheme.



Contract of employment
Police clearance certificates


The Foreign Government Agency stream covers employees of foreign government agencies traveling to Australia for official purposes in accordance with formal arrangements between the Australian government and such government agencies. Proof of employment by a foreign government must be provided together with the letter of support of the applicant by the sponsoring agency.


The Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular) stream is designed for domestic workers employed by eligible foreign government officials stationed in Australia. Give a letter of support from the employer, a copy of a contract of employment, and police clearance certificates from countries where you have resided.
The added security procedures that come with this channel may lengthen the processing time.
Ask about the application status if seven months or more have passed and there has been no decision.

The Privileges and Immunities stream applies to foreign government representatives traveling to Australia who hold privileges and immunities in accordance with international law. The applicants are to attach the relevant documentation to prove that they have the privileges and immunities as stipulated in the international agreement.
The seasonal work program stream allows citizens from selected Pacific countries and Timor-Leste to work in Australia temporarily under the seasonal labor scheme. Applicants must have an employer’s nomination and meet health, character, and English language requirements.

The Pacific Labour Stream is for nationals of eligible Pacific countries and Timor-Leste to undertake short-term jobs in Australia. An approved employer must designate nominators, meet health and character criteria, and display functional English language competence.


The 403 visa provides an opportunity for representatives, workers and officials of foreign governments who are sponsored to enter Australia to strengthen international relations and promote cooperation between governments. Eligible candidates must meet all eligibility criteria and application requirements for successful approval.

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