The Subclass 402 visa is a temporary visa that allows individuals to come to Australia to participate in occupational training or research activities. There are three streams available:
Occupational Trainee stream: This stream allows individuals to participate in workplace-based training to enhance their skills and knowledge in their current occupation, field of study, or area of expertise.
Professional Development stream: This stream is for professionals, managers, or government officials to undertake a structured professional development program in Australia.
Research stream: This stream allows individuals to undertake research or participate in a research project in Australia.
Pathways
The pathway for the Subclass 402 visa involves three stages:
Sponsorship: The applicant must be sponsored by an approved sponsor. The sponsor can be an Australian organisation or an overseas organisation with an Australian branch or affiliate. The sponsor must have a formal training or research arrangement with the applicant.
Nomination: The sponsor must nominate the applicant for a specific occupational training or research position.
Visa application: The applicant must apply for the Subclass 402 visa.
Validity and Financial Requirements
The Subclass 402 visa is a temporary visa that allows the holder to stay in Australia for the duration of their occupational training or research project, which is usually up to two years. The visa can be granted with single or multiple entry.
The financial requirements for the Subclass 402 visa depend on the specific circumstances of the applicant, including their sponsor's financial support and the duration of their stay in Australia. The applicant may be required to provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover their living expenses in Australia.
Obligations
Both the sponsor and the visa holder have obligations under the Subclass 402 visa.
Sponsor obligations include:
- Providing the occupational training or research opportunity as specified in the nomination
- Informing the Department of Home Affairs if the applicant does not commence the occupational training or research or if the arrangement is terminated early
- Meeting the costs of the applicant's departure from Australia if required
- Not engaging in any discriminatory practices
Visa holder obligations include:
- Complying with the conditions of the visa, including the occupational training or research requirements
- Maintaining appropriate health insurance
- Departing Australia before the visa expires
- Not working outside the scope of the occupational training or research
- Not engaging in any criminal activities
Overall, the Subclass 402 visa provides an opportunity for individuals to enhance their skills and knowledge in their chosen field through occupational training or research activities in Australia.