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Navigating the visa process can feel a bit daunting, but don't fret! This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know about securing your visa for your Adelaide Fringe experience. We've compiled all the essential information to make your application as smooth as possible.

Contents

Who Needs a Visa?

If you're an international visitor planning to work in Australia on live productions as a performer, production, or support staff, you'll generally need a visa. Specifically, the 408 Temporary Activity visa is the one you'll be looking at.

New Zealand Citizens

Great news for our mates from across the ditch! If you're a New Zealand citizen, you can work in Australia without needing to apply for a visa in advance. You'll be eligible for a Special Category Visa (subclass 444), which is granted automatically upon your arrival when you travel with a valid New Zealand passport. If you have any questions about this visa or other options, you can check out the NZ Visa and Immigration Frequently Asked Questions.

What Visa Do I Need?

For performing at the Adelaide Fringe festival, the visa you'll require is the Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) - Entertainment Activities stream. For Adelaide Fringe to provide support with your application, you'll need to be planning to stay in Australia for less than 3 months. For detailed eligibility criteria and further information, it's always best to refer to the official Home Affairs website. This visa allows you to work in Australia's entertainment industry as a performer, production, or support staff member.

When to Apply?

We recommend that anyone applying for visa for Fringe should apply no later than November, based on the following timeline:

Once a 408 Visa has been submitted to the Department of Home Affairs, the current processing timelines are: 
50% of applications: 24 Days
90% of applications: 56 Days

It is recommended to submit an application 8 weeks prior to the applicant’s departure date, or 12 weeks prior to the applicant's departure, if the applicant:
Has character issues (such as a criminal record)
Has health issues
May be required to provide biometrics, or
Is travelling from or a citizen of a high risk country.

How Adelaide Fringe Can Support

Adelaide Fringe is here to lend a hand with your visa application, especially if you intend to stay in Australia for less than 3 months. We can provide you with a crucial letter of support, along with a declaration of our charity status. 

Please keep in mind that Adelaide Fringe is unable to provide Visa Sponsorship. If your stay in Australia will be longer than 3 months, or if you're already in the country and applying for a 408 Visa, you'll need to reach out to a Migration Agent for professional advice. We recommend Migration Solutions if you need a starting point.

For any further questions about letters of support, don't hesitate to get in touch with our team at visas@adelaidefringe.com.au.

A quick heads-up: We can only provide you with a support letter for your visa once your event is fully registered with Adelaide Fringe and you've filled out our Visa Support Form: https://forms.gle/LTwG8MrSVLaZzHkQ7 

How Much Does it Cost?

Here's some good news: If you're performing at Adelaide Fringe, you might be able to get your visa at no cost! The application fee can be waived with supporting documents and your intended stay must be less than three months.

To apply for the Visa Application Charge Concession, follow these steps in the Charges section of your application:

  • Is the applicant eligible for a visa Application Charge (VAC) Concession?: Select Yes
  • Give details: Enter "Adelaide Fringe is a registered ACNC charity"
  • Select the eligible VAC: Choose Nil VAC

Remember, the charity status document that Adelaide Fringe provides will also need to be uploaded as supporting evidence at the end of your registration.

How to Apply

All participants will need to complete their own visa application through the Department of Home Affairs' online portal, known as ImmiAccount. You can create or log in to your account here: https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login.

The LPA Guide: 408 Visa Information Pack offers a range of resource documents and relevant information about how to apply for a 408 Entertainment Visa.

When you start a new application, make sure you select Temporary Work (Activity) and then Temporary Activity Visa (408).

How-To Guide

The Visa Application How To Guide has been created by Adelaide Fringe to help artists through the visa application process. Please note that this document is a guide only, and while we've done our best to make it accurate, Adelaide Fringe can't be held liable if your visa application isn't successful. Always double-check the Department of Home Affairs – Immigration and Citizenship website for the most up-to-date information.

Summary

  • Most international performers and crew will need a 408 Temporary Activity visa for stays under 3 months.
  • Adelaide Fringe can provide a Letter of Support and charity status declaration to help with your application and potentially waive the visa fee.
  • You'll apply online via your ImmiAccount, making sure to select the correct visa subclass.
  • Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest and most accurate information.

Additional Resources